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enParents, Young People, and the Exam Roomhttps://powertodecide.org/news/parents-young-people-and-exam-room
As champions for young people, many providers such as pediatricians, family medicine doctors, and family nurse practitioners, can be an excellent resource for both parents and young people looking for support. Some parents may not know where to begin when talking about sexual and reproductive health, others may prefer to have a provider talk to their kids instead, and some may want to make sure all of their bases are covered by having a provider supplement conversations they’ve already begun. No matter the motivation, the provider’s office is a great place for conversations about reproductive well-being.
Before Your Visit
While taking about sex with a young person can often feel overwhelming, your child’s annual visit to a health care provider can serve as a reminder that it’s not one big, scary conversation, but a series of talks that progress over time. This not only allows young people to take in the new information on their own time but allows for age-appropriate discussions to happen more organically.
Talking about sexual health isn’t always about talking. As someone outside of the family dynamic, providers can help remind parents and families to listen. When they’re comfortable young people often ask many, many questions, and when parents and providers take the time to listen to what’s being asked, they can identify themes that may help guide future conversations.
During Your Visit
With years of medical training, many providers will be a great resource for questions related to sex and developmental milestones like puberty. Often, as young people grow, what they are concerned about is if they’re normal. Hearing about what to expect as they grow and about their own progress from a medical professional can be very reassuring and normalizing.
During the course of the visit the provider may ask a lot of questions, but that doesn’t mean they’re being nosy. They’re actually ensuring that they give your young person the best care possible by fully understanding their concerns, where they’re at developmentally, or if they’re sexually active yet. At some point during the visit you may be asked to step out of the room, and that’s perfectly normal. By leaving the room your young person can talk in a setting that may make them more likely to ask or answer questions that will ultimately allow them to receive appropriate care.
Providers also have a detailed understanding of other topics such as confidentially. State laws around confidentially vary and can affect the types of sexual and reproductive health care, substance abuse, and mental health services minors can access without a parent or guardian’s consent. If you’d like to discuss another important, sensitive subject such as consent, providers can help talk to begin and even guide the conversation.
However, providers don’t always have all the answers either! If a question comes up that a provider doesn’t know the answer to, they’re well-equipped to research the answer. If the visit allows for it, they may even be able to take the time to learn the answer in real time alongside you and your young people.
After Your Visit
Talking and listening don’t end when families leave the provider’s office. Giving young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child is powerful. Giving young people the information, access, and opportunity to make decisions that align with their values and where they want their lives to go is powerful. Talking is powerful. So, start early and talk often. Parents, you’re more powerful than you think.Thu, 04 Jun 2020 10:03:52 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/parents-young-people-and-exam-roomWe Have the Power to Changehttps://powertodecide.org/news/we-have-power-change
Racism. Injustice. Inequality. These dreadful words have ignited events over the past week and have highlighted the defining point that we are facing as a nation. We are saddened, hurt, outraged, frustrated, dejected, and angry. We mourn for countless people of color who have lost their lives to injustices inflicted by those with power; power that is often not in the hands of black and brown people. And unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. We wait with bated breath as we wonder not if, but when, these incidents will repeat themselves.
We condemn in the strongest terms, the racism and injustice that was and still is on full display as a nation watched in horror these past few days. At Power to Decide, we acknowledge that it will take more than talking and proselytizing to bring about effective change. We must be committed partners and join arms with those who seek to develop very concrete actions to address structural racism, violence, health inequities, and the economic and educational impacts associated with them. Coupled with a national pandemic that is disproportionately affecting people of color, recent tragedies illustrate the need to see structural racism as a public health crisis.
Yet there are small glimmers of hope. Citizens in the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, and other places of all races and ethnicities are standing with communities here in the United States to condemn injustice. However, we cannot take our eyes off the ultimate goal, which is denouncing structural racism; a construct that as we know has dire consequences, especially within the public health space. Educating others about the impacts of structural racism is important, but education will need to urgently give way to policies and programs, both at the federal, state, and local levels that get at the heart of how all people, especially in communities of color, can realize their dreams and have the power to decide their own futures.
This moment now calls for action. We must be clear with our words and actions about what we stand for, how we show up, and how we partner with mission aligned organizations. We cannot rest because to rest is to avert our eyes and fall back into an abyss of complacency that will be even harder to evade. We all have the power to be that change.Wed, 03 Jun 2020 09:27:29 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/we-have-power-changeMay 2020: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2020-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are nine stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Improving Access to and Use of Contraception by Adolescents: What Progress Has Been Made, What Lessons Have Been Learnt, and What are the Implications for Action?
Though the rate of teen births has fallen in the last 25 years, there are still compelling public health, economic, and human rights reasons to continue efforts to reduce the rate even further. This paper scrutinizes barriers faced by teens to accessing and using birth control to avoid unplanned pregnancy. It also makes several evidence-based suggestions on how to address these factors using examples from other countries which have made progress in recent years.
Abortion
Abortion During the COVID-19 Pandemic — Ensuring Access to an Essential Health Service
This New England Journal of Medicine article calls for state governors and other politicians to lift abortion restrictions recently placed due to COVID-19. They argue that abortion should not be considered an elective procedure, terming it a “historical misclassification.” The authors also call for “all medical professionals to stand in solidarity with ACOG [American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists] and the AMA [American Medical Association], with the women and couples who need the option of pregnancy termination, and with their colleagues who serve these patients.”
Abortion in The Context of COVID-19: A Human Rights Imperative
This commentary argues that abortion and its associated health risks are time sensitive and therefore must be considered an essential medical service during COVID-19. Previously collected evidence shows that when access to abortion is restricted or unavailable a considerable number of people will turn to other, often unsafe, means of ending an unplanned pregnancy. The authors write, “Permitting women to undertake safe self-managed abortion with telemedicine counselling, is not simply about harm reduction; it is a human rights imperative…”
Pregnancy and Birth
What Will It Take to Further Reduce Teen Pregnancy in the U.S.?
This paper used existing research to compare sexual activity, birth control use, and adolescent pregnancy in the United States and Great Britain to attempt to determine ways to ensure the continued decline of teen pregnancy rates in the US. The authors found at least four ways to achieve this goal; increase teen knowledge about all methods of birth control, improve access to high-quality contraceptive methods, strengthen social norms about the significance of pregnancy and reasons to avoid teen pregnancy, and inform each of these three ideas with high-quality research.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Call to Action: Preserving and Advocating for Essential Care for Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Written by five OBGYNs, this call to action asks other OBGYNs to stand with their patients and advocate for their right to access “the full spectrum” of sexual and reproductive health services. They also suggest supporting local, state, and national policies that aim to expand care, such as expanding Medicaid pregnancy and postpartum coverage.
A Triadic Intervention for Adolescent Sexual Health
This study evaluated the effectiveness of Families Talking Together, a three-pronged intervention aimed at reducing risky sexual behavior in adolescents. Findings show positive intervention effects for delaying first sexual experience and reducing risky behavior. One year after the intervention took place, only 5.2% of adolescents in the experimental group reported having had sexual intercourse, while 18% of those in the control groups had done so.
A Look at Online Platforms for Contraceptive and STI Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Prior to COVID-19 there were already many places and companies offering alternative, mostly telehealth-based, solutions for contraceptive and STI services. This paper looks at those options in the context of the current pandemic and each option’s opportunities and limitations in terms of availability and cost.
The Unprecedented Expansion of the Global Gag Rule: Trampling Rights, Health and Free Speech
In the policy review, the author writes that “new research from the Guttmacher Institute demonstrates
that the expanded global gag rule has already had a detrimental impact on clinical providers, community health workers and critical public health partners around the world.” The article recommends that Congress permanently repeal the global gag rule and actively support access to the full range of reproductive health services.
Ten Things State Policymakers Can Do to Protect Access to Reproductive Health Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Read the article for more detail, the 10 suggestions are:
Ensure that reproductive health care is included within essential health care.
Ensure that abortion care is accessible and timely by repealing burdensome restrictions.
Protect individuals’ autonomy and choices in abortion care, including self-managed abortion.
Allow pharmacists to provide contraceptive services.
Increase support for publicly funded clinics.
Respond to the needs of pregnant and parenting individuals and continue efforts to reduce maternal mortality.
Support sex education in remote learning programs.
Expand public and private insurance coverage of reproductive health services.
Broaden access to sexual and reproductive health care through telehealth.
Protect patients from religious and moral refusals of care.
Fri, 29 May 2020 09:00:00 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2020-power-updates-editionChampions: Seize the Momenthttps://powertodecide.org/news/champions-seize-moment
In April, prior to our annual #TalkingIsPower campaign, we conducted two surveys to learn more about how this pandemic is affecting adults' time with the young people in their lives, specifically when it comes to conversations about sex, love, relationships, and birth control. With many parents doubling as teachers, parents are spending more time with their children in this unprecedented time. The first survey we conducted was through Ask Your Target Market, an online market research firm. We surveyed 250 US adults between age 18 and 34. The second survey was a national telephone survey conducted among more than 500 men and women age 18 and older.
We found that the majority of adults (57%) agree that sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic has provided increased opportunites for conversations with the young people in their lives about sex, love, relationships, and ultimately birth control. In addition, 90% of adults agree that such conversations positively influence youth to make informed decisions about these critical issues.
In addition to math, English, and social studies, sex education is a vital subject, but many parents might be hesitant to start these sometimes-awkward conversations. We’re here to help you seize this moment with guides, videos, and conversation starters and tips. Starting these conversations gives your young person the resources to have the power to decide their futures and give you the opportunity to connect and build a foundation for open, honest, and safe conversations.
In our second survey, more than two-thirds of adults said that, as teens, they had someone to talk with about these topics. Among those who had someone to talk to, 60% reported talking to parents, 58% to a friend, 35% to a significant other, and 23% to a sibling. Parents today continue to be a huge influence in young people's lives when it comes to their decisions about sex, love, and relationships. In a 2016 survey conducted by Power to Decide, 52% of teens age 12-15 said that parents most influence their decisions about sex.
Sparking these conversations is as easy as watching a show or movie with the young person in your life. We recommend that you talk about what’s going on between characters in the show, discuss what healthy relationships look like, ask what your young person believes love is, and other questions relevant to the media you're watching or what's happening around you. In a previous survey commissioned by Power to Decide, 61% of teen girls (age 13-16) said that their parents spoke about the relationships, love, and sex that they have seen on televisions shows that they both watch.
And, what a better time than to start a new binge-worthy television show than right now! Not too sure what to watch? Check out some shows here.
Champions have a huge impact on a young person’s decisions. A champion can be a friend, aunt, uncle, cousin, brother, sister, grandparents, teacher – anyone that is willing to have these important conversations with the young person in their life, is a champion.
As #TalkingIsPower month comes to an end, we want to encourage all champions to continue to have these conversations not just this month, but year-round. Open and honest conversations between the young person in your life is the goal. Let’s talk!
Thu, 28 May 2020 09:56:56 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/champions-seize-momentWhat Teens Really Want to Learn in Sex Edhttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-teens-really-want-learn-sex-ed
From as early as elementary school, I learned about sex. But the education I received growing up was neither comprehensive nor useful when it came to real life situations. Sure, I had more than one health class from elementary school to high school, but the truth is a lot of questions that I and other teens have remain unanswered. For example, how do we maintain open, honest communication about the sexual experiences we’re having with our partner(s) without hurting their feelings? How do we know the right kind of condom or lubricant to buy? How can we get other methods of birth control and which would work best for us? May is Sex Ed for All Month, which is exactly what needs to be discussed: sex.
The health curriculum in some schools does a good job of covering the basics (think about the condom over the banana demonstration or cut and dry factual discussions of periods) but the place we come to learn is the place that lets us down the most when it comes to talking about sex. By the time I got to middle school I knew what a condom was and what it’s for, so why was I, and the rest of my knowledgeable classmates, continually forced to learn the same information?
Here are some different topics that schools could implement into their curriculum to address questions that teens actually want and need answers to:
Different Types of Sex
In high school, there’s a lot of emphasis on oral sex among teens, something rarely discussed in health class. For some, oral sex can be a way to experiment with a partner before taking anything further. For others, it’s the only type of sex they may currently be interested in, either way it should be addressed and acknowledged in the classroom. Discussing all forms of non-penetrative sex in general would not only be informative but allow everyone to have a better understanding of what sex really looks like, straying from the penis-in-vagina type sex taught in most American high schools. Non-penetrative sex can include, but is not limited to, dry humping, using sex toys, oral sex, sensory play, and mutual masturbation.
Questions teens may be asking: How can you make someone orgasm without penetration? How do I tell my partner that I feel comfortable/want or uncomfortable/don’t want to perform oral sex? How do I talk to my partner about trying a different type of sex? How do I introduce kinks or fetishes to my partner?
Masturbation
When I learned about masturbation in school, the content focused primarily around boys. Growing up, I learned all about male anatomy but surprisingly found out nothing about the way my own body worked or how it differed. I quickly learned female masturbation was more of a taboo topic that teachers tended to stay away from for whatever reason, which eventually lead to discomfort even just talking among friends about the subject.
Questions teens may be asking: What do different sex toys do? What’s the best way to orgasm through masturbation? Is masturbating too much unhealthy?
Sexuality
As we grow older, we may start questioning and exploring our own sexuality. Most sex ed curriculums focus on relationships between a cisgender man and a cisgender woman without any information on LGBTQ+ relationships. However, according to a survey done by the CDC, 1.3 million teens reported identifying themselves as lesbian, gay, or bisexual. Schools should be able to implement a more diverse and open curriculum to give students the support they need.
Questions teens may be asking: What do you do if you’re questioning your sexuality? Who can I talk to? How do you come out? What do you do if a loved one doesn’t accept your sexuality?
General Questions
These subject and questions aren’t exhaustive, of course. But here are a few other questions that teens may have that aren’t covered by many of sex ed classes:
How do you build up enough trust to ensure everyone included is going to be ready and have a good time?
How do you initiate sex? What do you do before? After?
How much do you shave/how do you shave properly?
How do you get over body insecurity/feel comfortable with your own body?
These kinds of questions are all things that many teens think about, but why shouldn’t we learn about them in school? Teens and young people need more guidance and support when it comes to learning about sex.
Anna Labarca is a senior at Walt Whitman High School in Maryland. She writes for the student newspaper, The Black and White. She plans to study journalism in college and is interning at Power to Decide to learn more about the role communications has in campaigns.
Wed, 27 May 2020 10:56:10 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-teens-really-want-learn-sex-ed4 Questions with Nadya Okamotohttps://powertodecide.org/news/4-questions-nadya-okamoto
Nadya Okamoto founded PERIOD at age 16 after speaking to people around her home of Portland, OR, about their experiences using things like toilet paper or socks while on their period. PERIOD is an international non-profit organization fighting to end period poverty and stigma. With more than 700 chapters on college campuses in all 50 states as well as in 40 other countries, PERIOD provides those in need with period products such as tampons and pads. The organization also advocates to end the so-called “tampon tax,” a sales tax levied on all period products because they are not deemed “medically necessary.”
At age 19, while attending Harvard University, she ran for city council in Cambridge, MA, becoming the youngest Asian American to run for public office. In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month as well as Talking Is Power, we recently talked about her experiences founding what is now the largest youth-run NGO in women’s health and why she’s so passionate about ensuring everyone has the power to decide what their future looks like.
PERIOD helped to commission a study which found that nearly 85% of teens in the US who have a period have either missed class or know someone who’s missed class because of a lack of access to period products. Likewise, we know that more than 19 million women with low incomes live in contraceptive deserts, or counties without reasonable access to the full range of birth control methods. Why is access an issue that everyone should care about?
My passion for this work on ending period poverty stems from my fundamental belief that it is a human right to discover and reach one’s full potential, regardless of a natural need. And what could be more natural than the biological needs that our reproductive health poses for us — so access to period care, and contraceptives (and thus the right to family planning) is absolutely an issue that everyone should care about.
You’ve spoken before about how privilege colors our experiences and can make it difficult to recognize other people’s situations. How has having the power to decide your future impacted you? What advice can you give to champions who want to give the young people in their lives the power to decide as well?
I’m very fortunate that I’ve been able to turn my passion into my profession and I owe that, in part, to mentors I’ve had. My advice to others that want to empower young people would be to share opportunities with young people, uplift their voices, and offer mentorship if you’re able!
What advice do you have for other young people looking to take their activism beyond retweets and signing petitions?
They can join or start a PERIOD chapter at their school or in their community! We have over 700 registered chapters across the globe that strive to advance PERIOD’s mission of ending period poverty and period stigma, by creating action plans employing our three pillars of service, education, and advocacy. Chapters run educational workshops in their community to reshape the way people think, talk, and learn about periods. They also distribute menstrual products to people in need in their community, and work on changing policy to advance menstrual equity on both the local and the state level. All of the information on how to get started can be found at period.org! Other ways to work towards ending period stigma are to have open conversations about menstruation, educate yourself and others, and fight alongside PERIOD to change policy!
Why do you think that Talking Is Power?
When I was 16, I felt so alone in my experiences. It was through sharing my story, that I reclaimed my voice and my past for myself. Moreover, I’m inspired by the stories I hear from my community. I think that’s the power of talking; people can relate, educate, and uplift each other.
Tue, 26 May 2020 09:28:10 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/4-questions-nadya-okamoto5 Celebs on Talking About Sexhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-celebs-talking-about-sex
Conversations hold a lot of power. So, when it’s time to start talking about sex or other areas of reproductive health with your kids, it’s important to have an open mind, be clear, and know that you don’t have to get it perfect on the first go.
We’re highlighting Chris Hemsworth, Kate Hudson, Padma Lakshmi, Jenny Slate, and the cast of “Sex Education” who have all shared their experiences regarding sex, the talk, and puberty. Use their experiences as well as other #TalkingIsPower resources to start a conversation with your young person today.
1. Chris Hemsworth
Most known for his role as Thor in the Avengers movie, Hemsworth has three kids – India (7), Tristan (6) and Sasha (6). He is aware that he will eventually have to have the sex talk with his kids, but that does not stop them from asking more questions – no matter who is around or if they are in public.
2. Kate Hudson
Hudson recently shared her positive sex talk experience with her mom, Goldie Hawn. Kate was young when her mom decided to talk to her about sex. Goldie created an open dialogue, that sex educator, Carlin Ross, describes as healthy and vital to the development of a person’s health and well-being. Her explanation of sex being fun especially when it is had with one person, is a statement Kate remembers and calls a “good lesson.” For more insight on this mother daughter talk, read the whole article.
3. Padma Lakshmi
The Top Chef host decided to have these difficult conversations with her daughter at the age of four. Lakshmi believed that it was important for Krishna’s development to discuss sexual assault and molestation as she started going to preschool. Her decision to speak to her daughter about these difficult topics was meant to instill a sense of possessiveness to her body. Read the full article and get advice on how Padma uses these difficult topics to reinforce your power to decide.
4. Jenny Slate
The 38-year-old star of the rom-com "Obvious Child," a movie about unplanned pregnancy, explained that she grew up with a mom who was creative and artistic, and this led her to be careful when it came to romance and sex. She explains that she got “great sex education.” Her perspective on sex was if she was going to be sexually active then she would have to engage in safe sex. However, Slate is aware of the shame that is experienced when women first become sexually active and wished that she had an experience with her friends in college where they could openly talk about their bodies. Read the full article and see how other women talk about sexual and reproductive health too.
5. Cast of Sex Education
Emma Mackey, Ncuti Gatwa, Aimee Lou Wood, and Connor Swindells, stars of Netflix's hit show "Sex Education" talk about their experience with puberty, uncomfortable questions regarding oral sex, and what advice they would give their 16-year-old selves.Thu, 21 May 2020 10:23:17 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-celebs-talking-about-sexOprah Taught Me Sex Ed https://powertodecide.org/news/oprah-taught-me-sex-ed
Back in 2009, Oprah Winfrey still dominated daytime television with her Emmy award-winning talk show and my mother was, to say the least, a huge fan. She regularly referenced Oprah’s show, quoting her on a near daily basis, and relied on her website for everything from dinner recipes to life advice. It would not be too big a stretch to say that a common mantra in our household was “WWOD” or “What would Oprah do?”.
One day, my mother called me into my parents’ bedroom and said it was time to have a special chat. Being only ten years old, I didn’t really understand what she meant by “special,” but then I saw the packet in her hand. Downloaded directly from the Oprah Winfrey website was a “How to Talk to Kids About Sex” Handbook. For the next hour, I received a very thorough lecture on the sexual anatomy of boys and girls, menstruation, and masturbation.
Living in a rural, small town with a population of less than 3,000 people in central Illinois, I would learn to depend on my lessons from Oprah to compensate for the lack of sex ed at my local middle school. As the state does not mandate sex ed across all school districts, my school barely addressed sexual health in the (optional) general health class. Beyond identifying STIs and pushing abstinence-only, I remember thinking that my lessons with Oprah were far more extensive and was surprised to see that some of my peers were so uncomfortable talking about sexual health. Looking back, I must have seemed a little too knowledgeable about sex ed to them at thirteen. But my mother and Oprah were excellent teachers.
In the end, it didn’t matter as I moved to a larger town and attended a university high school. While the sex ed curriculum remained pro-abstinence, it also provided in-depth explanations of the various forms of birth control available and was far more comprehensive compared to the education I would have received had I stayed in the smaller town.
This, as it turns out, is a pretty common phenomenon. Rural areas are falling through the cracks in terms of comprehensive, evidence-based sexual education. According to Laura Duberstein Lindberg of The Guttmacher Institute, she and her team found in an extensive survey project that “more than four out of five teens were taught about birth control [in 1995] — in the most recent data this is only about half.” The study also found that regions experiencing the most significant declines were in rural areas. A 2017 report confirmed this when it found that “[The] share of rural adolescents who had received instruction about birth control declined from 71% to 48% among females, and from 59% to 45% among males."
With 13.5 million children below age 18 living in rural areas, millions of teens are at risk of not receiving comprehensive sex ed. According to a CDC report, fewer than half of high schools and only a fifth of middle schools teach all 16 topics recommended by the CDC as essential components of sex ed. This does not even account for states that do not mandate sex ed at all. For example, in areas with large concentrations of rural populations such as the Midwest and Rocky Mountain region, only seven of the eighteen states mandate sex ed.
These significant decreases in formal sexual education have real-life consequences. My middle school is a prime example; of the 60 students in the class, almost 10% became teen parents by the time they reached high school graduation. Compared to my high school class of 55 people, which received in-depth conversations on birth control, where there were no teen pregnancies. The impact of a strong, evidence-based sexual education course can change lives and it should not matter where one lives to get the education they need. While other factors may have impacted each student population, it does not undermine the fact that having a better knowledge of birth control and an ability to access it when needed can have a serious impact on reducing teen pregnancy rates.
It’s strange to think that it was thanks to Oprah that I learned so much about my body, puberty, and sex. While super awkward in the moment, my mother ensured that I would always feel comfortable talking to her about my sexual health and that I could always ask her questions. And, if I had a question or aged into my next sexual health lesson, the Handbook was always at the ready alongside my all-too-eager mother to give advice.
So, the next time policymakers and educators are considering sexual education, remember to ask, “What would Oprah do?” and encourage them to support evidence-based sexual health programs that are accessible to both urban and rural communities.Wed, 20 May 2020 10:28:54 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/oprah-taught-me-sex-ed#TakeActionTuesdayshttps://powertodecide.org/news/takeactiontuesdays
Here at Power to Decide we believe that everyone has the power to activate and make a difference. Check back regularly for a new call to action. Make your voice heard!
May 19, 2020
Access to effective and affordable birth control is an issue for nearly 19 million women across the United States. And now more than ever, we need your voice to help spread the message that everyone deserves the right to access the full range of methods, no matter where you live.
We want you to take the time in between all your video calls and baking sessions to color for contraceptive access and tell the world that you believe in birth control access for all. Download our coloring pages and post your colorful creations online to tell the world that everyone deserves access to affordable and effective birth control no matter who they are or where they live. Don't forget to tag us @PowertoDecide.
May 12, 2020
Did you know that in 39 states (plus DC!) you don't need to leave the house to register to vote? So if you're not registered yet, go to usa.gov today and learn how to register where you live!
May 5, 2020
The public health crisis of the coronavirus is falling hardest on people already struggling to make ends meet and who lack access to the health care they need. Yet some policymakers have sought during these difficult times to ban abortion. Help us to push back on these harmful policies by telling your member of Congress that now is the time to give our communities the support they need, not abortion coverage bans.
April 21, 2020
Are you thankful for your birth control?
We're currently running a poll on our Twitter asking why you're thankful for your birth control. So head to our profile (@PowertoDecide) and vote! Help us tell the world #ThxBirthControl!
April 7, 2020
If you, a loved one, a client, or patient still don't have health insurance, 12 states have opened a special enrollment period in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. More states may add their own special enrollment period and these states may change the date that their periods stay open, so check out this blog for up-to-date coverage.
And remember, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that everyone wash their hands often and for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face and close contact with others, stay home and wear a face mask if you’re feeling sick, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. Read more about their tips here.
February 4, 2020
In one month, on March 4, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in June Medical Services v. Gee, a case involving a Louisiana law that could dramatically hinder access to abortion care for Louisianans by reducing the state to one abortion clinic for the more than 10,000 Louisiana women who seek abortion care each year.
Please join us from 8-11:30 am on March 4, 2020, for a rally on the steps of the Supreme Court to affirm that abortion is health care and everyone deserves the access they need to have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and having a child.
January 21, 2020
Sign Up for Frisky Friday
You know what makes birth control even better? Feeling empowered about your relationships and your sex life. Sign up for our Bedsider program's Frisky Friday newsletter to receive weekly sex, love, and dating tips directly to your inbox.
December 10, 2019
Make sure that the 2020 Open Enrollment is a success! For those of you that are providers or work in a clinical setting, remember to remind those you serve that they will have a few more days to obtain health coverage. Open Enrollment for the ACA runs through December 15, and if you need to refer anyone we have the resources for you to help someone select a plan that better fits their needs. Remember: ACA provides all women with no-copay birth control, and as we all know contraception is basic health care.
November 12, 2019
Tomorrow is Thanks, Birth Control day! Join us in acknowledging all the wonderful things birth control makes possible. Show some birth control love and look good doing it! Buy #ThxBirthControl swag today!
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October 29, 2019
Get ready! Open Enrollment for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act is right around the corner. From November 1 to December 15 you can go to https://healthcare.gov and choose a new plan or switch plans to one that works better for you.
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October 15, 2019
Have you ever struggled to get birth control? We want to hear your story.
During Let’s Talk Month we’ve partnered with Simple Health for their #KissMyAccess campaign to ignite conversation around the lack of awareness around birth control access. Despite its importance, we know that people just don’t talk about birth control. And by not talking about it, reproductive health awareness, access, and progress—as well as women themselves—have suffered. If you’ve ever struggled to get your birth control—because of cost, insurance coverage, doctor interference, time off, or any other reason—we’re asking you to publicly talk about it. Share your story on Instagram or Twitter with the hashtag #KissMyAccess, and for each tagged post in October, Simple Health will donate one month of birth control to an uninsured woman.
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September 17, 2019
Sign up for Power PulseSign up for our monthly Power Pulse newsletter to stay on top of the latest on sexual health and ways to raise your voice for the power to decide.
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September 3, 2019
Help us fight the gag rule!
The Title X Family planning Program is the nation’s only federal funding dedicated to providing those most in need with free or low-cost contraceptive care. But in August, the devastating “domestic gag rule” began to force many health centers to leave the Title X program and give up millions of dollars that have been used to provide low-income people with the care that they need. To date, twenty percent of the grantees across 16 states have already been forced out of the program and the number is likely to rise. As a result, those living in underserved communities and those struggling to make ends meet are finding themselves unable to afford the contraception they need. Help us fight back now by sending a message demanding your Senators protect Title X.
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August 20, 2019
How’s your summer going? Getting some chill time in? You may not have heard of “August Recess,” but it’s when members of Congress leave Washington DC to go home to their districts and states, but no, it’s not to chill. They’re working there until they return after Labor Day weekend. This doesn’t mean that nothing is happening—in fact, quite the opposite. Particularly in the Senate, which has yet to pass any spending bills for the next fiscal year that begins on October 1, work is underway to decide which programs get what money and how they are administered. In other words, it’s a crucial time for you to make your voice heard, especially with your Senators. Please reach out and tell Senators to fully fund the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program and the Title X family Planning Program, and support the language offered by the House that ensures these programs are implemented as they traditionally have been.
How can you help? Visit our Take Action page, and help us advocate for the TPP Program, then share your birth control story and help us protect the Title X Family Planning Program and the critical access to birth control it provides. Still want to do more? Share your views with your members of Congress on social media and attend one of their local events. Remember, they work for YOU! Bonus, you can do all this from your phone while at the pool.
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July 16, 2019
Sign up for our monthly Power Pulse newsletter to stay on top of the latest on sexual health and ways to raise your voice for the power to decide.
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July 9, 2019
You know what makes birth control even better? Feeling empowered about your relationships and your sex life. Sign up for Bedsider's Frisky Friday newsletter to receive weekly sex, love, and dating tips directly to your inbox!
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July 2, 2019
Before the ACA, many insurance plans did not cover reproductive health care. Now the Trump Administration is trying to roll this back and allow discrimination in health care. Read more on how the Administration is trying to do this, then submit an official comment to let them know why they should not roll back the Health Care Rights law. If you have a personal story about barriers you faced when trying to access health care—like feeling afraid of being judged or shamed when planning a doctor's visit or having a provider dismiss your pain or symptoms because of your race, gender, or sexual orientation—you can share that story in your comment to help add to its impact!
June 11, 2019
Earlier this year year we shared in this video how the Domestic Gag Rule could impact the Title X Family Planning Fund—and along with it, your power to decide on and access the care you need. Have you ever gone to a clinic and received contraceptive counseling and contraception for free or at a reduced price? If so, whether you know it or not, it might have been the Title X Family Planning Fund that covered your bill, in part or in whole. If you have had this experience, let us know what access to birth control meant to you. Whether it helped you pursue your education, deal with painful periods, or not have to choose between health care and groceries, we want to know.
Tell us your birth control story here.
Tue, 19 May 2020 10:00:00 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/takeactiontuesdaysMay 2020 Power Womxnhttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2020-power-womxn
We’re committed to uplifting the amazing womxn in tech who are working to ensure that everyone – no matter who they are or where they live – can achieve reproductive well-being. Brought to you by Pandia Health, we are pleased to launch the Power Womxn series in which we will feature womxn FemTech leaders and founders who are out to change the world!
This month’s Power Womxn is Alexandra Fine, CEO and Co-founder of Dame Products.
1. What inspired you to start/lead your company?
(Almost) all people come from sex, and yet it’s something we, as a society, still struggle to discuss. Early on, I discovered my passion for improving our culture’s relationship and experience of sex. I went on to earn my Masters in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in sex therapy from Columbia University. I felt that, personally, I could make a bigger difference by starting a company – so that’s what I set out to do.
While I was making vibrator prototypes in my kitchen from silver dollar coins & plastic wrap, my soon-to-be co-founder Janet Lieberman-Lu (an MIT alumna with years of product development experience) was also thinking about starting a sex toy company. She knew that sex toys weren’t being held to the same standards as the other consumer goods and knew she had the skillset to ensure that they were.
It only took one breakfast meeting to know we had the complementary skills to start something special. Dame Products was born!
2. How does your work help give people the tools to achieve reproductive well-being?
When developing any of our products, we apply extensive research, smart design principles, and – perhaps most importantly – empathy.
Through our research arm, Dame Labs, our customers inform so much of our product development process. From the type of stimulation a product provides to where each button is placed, we test every detail with real people to ensure we’re providing real solutions for the bedroom – not just prescribing what we think people want/need. The Dame community is working to humanize a product space that isn’t always speaking to the audience it serves.
3. How would you define success for your company and for the fem tech space, more generally?
We first started Dame Products with a mission to close the pleasure gap – the disparity in satisfaction that people with vulvas experience in the bedroom, versus their cis male counterparts. The fact that a majority of people with vulvas need clitoral stimulation for pleasurable sex, is more widely understood than it was a decade ago — and sharing that message is a success point for us. This is opening up doors for so many people with vulvas to explore sex with clitoral touch as a focal point — with or without penetration.
4. How do you see the FemTech space changing in the next 5 years? What are you looking forward to?
The sex industry is on a swing from a male-centric vice industry to a female-centric wellness industry, and that's a pretty big change. Sex is becoming a more public part of everyday conversation, which helps shed light on high quality products within the industry. We're seeing it more openly discussed in pop culture, which helps validate and sanction products that were once shamed. Beyond that, the rise of technological advancements in the space have helped demonstrate that these products are just as intricate and thoughtfully-made as those in any other category.
Ultimately, I think the sextech space will continue to evolve from novelty toys to sexual health, and be a one-stop-shop for tools that bring value and pleasure to sex, whether that’s solo sex or with a partner.
5. What advice would you give other womxn looking to get into FemTech?
When we first started, Dame Products was one of few companies making sex toys led by people with vulvas – who understood firsthand the anatomy we were designing for. Now, we’re being joined by so many women and nonbinary folks looking to disrupt sex tech. Not only is this raising the standard for the toys and products we see on the market, but also shifting the conversation to a less cismale-centric view on sex. So, my advice would be to jump on in — because we need the voices of more womxn / nonbinary folks / all different kinds of humans to create products that solve all different kinds of problems.Mon, 18 May 2020 10:24:04 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2020-power-womxnCan TV Shows Fuel Better Sex Talks IRL?https://powertodecide.org/news/can-tv-shows-fuel-better-sex-talks-irl
What we know: young people want to hear from their parents and other adults in their lives about sex, love, relationships and how to navigate it all. Year in and year out, research and real stories back this up.
What we also know: parents, cousins, aunts/uncles, and mentors want to be trusted, go-to sources for the young people in their lives.
What makes most adults uncertain: how to start. And how not to let fear of paralyzing awkwardness put us off.
The good news: in honor of #TalkingIsPower month, we’ve gathered six of our favorite TV sex talks. These conversations are not picture-perfect: they are messy, fraught and sometimes comically awkward. That’s why we love them—and why they provide such a great starting point for further exploration. There’s no such thing as the perfect sex talk…or even “the” singular talk; it’s a life-long conversation about reproductive well-being, grounded in trust and connection.
Each clip offers a small taste of complex stories that run through episodes and seasons. We are honored to serve as content partners to this lineup of shows and networks. Tune in with your family (or catch up to your kids) and talk about how characters handled the situations that came up. Check out our tips to help get the conversation started.
After watching these clips try out the prompts, and share your stories using #TalkingIsPower on your favorite social channel (tag us at @PowertoDecide) throughout May!
Everything’s Gonna Be Okay (Freeform)
Matilda feels very ready for sex, now that she’s 18. Older brother (and guardian) Nicholas tries to explain the finer points of what being ready for sex means in different situations and life stages.
Question: What do you think makes someone “ready” for sex?
Learn more and tune in
Follow: @EverythingsOkTV
Sex Education (Netflix)
Otis and his distant dad video chat about the fact that Otis feels “behind” his peers because he’s still a virgin. His dad shares that the first time is often not the most enjoyable and encourages him to “rip the band-aid off” as soon as possible.
Question: Do you agree with the advice from Otis’s dad? Why or why not?
Learn more and tune in
Follow: @Netflix
Unexpected (TLC)
In this supercut, each family offers advice to parents of teens about how to talk to them about avoiding pregnancy before they’re ready. Teen mom Kim tells her parents that she was afraid of telling them she was sexually active because she didn’t want to get in trouble. She warns other parents not to give off that same vibe to their teens since that’s when “bad things happen.”
Question: How can parents show concern without judgment?
Learn more and tune in
Follow: @TLC
Black-ish (ABC)
Dre and Bow spend the entire episode debating the double standard that society holds for young women vs. young men when it comes to sex—and come to realize that they’ve internalized it and have been talking very differently with their own son and daughter about sex and expectations.
Question: What are some of the different messages young men and young women are hearing about sex?
Learn more and tune in
Follow: @BlackishABC
Grownish (Freeform)
When Zoey and her friends reunite on campus to start their junior year, Nomi surprises them with her pregnancy. The conversation begins with “your pregnant ass is pregnant?!” and unfolds into a thoughtful, comedic, and timely exploration of the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
Question: Have you ever thought about how a pregnancy would affect your life right now?
Learn more and tune in
Follow: @grownish
The Bold Type (Freeform)
Kat tells Oliver, the top stylist at Scarlet magazine: “I’m never quite right. Not Black, not white, not gay, not straight.” When she asks Oliver “where’s the space in between?” he shares his own long-ago coming out journey and assures her that she doesn’t need other people to define her: “you have to create it. And claim it as your own.” Pure inspiration, support and warmth.
Question: What makes Oliver so approachable on the subject of sexuality?
Learn more and tune in
Follow: @TheBoldTypeTVThu, 14 May 2020 10:05:19 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/can-tv-shows-fuel-better-sex-talks-irlThoughts From A Sexuality Educatorhttps://powertodecide.org/news/thoughts-sexuality-educator
Throughout middle school, whispers of crushes, flirting on AIM, first periods, and shaving grew as we did. As many 12-year-olds do, I smiled and laughed in agreement even when I didn’t know what my peers meant. All the while, I was eager to get home and ask one of my brothers how to ‘do’ all of this. I’ll never know if the first brother who I sought wisdom from was genuinely misinformed about these topics too, or if he was intentionally trying make me even more embarrassed about navigating the world as a pre-teen, but he wasn’t much help. When I asked him about the wonders of shaving, he told me where I could find our mom’s razor and gave me explicit directions on how to shave my arms. Not my armpits, my arms. A week later, I found myself back on the playground, staring at how the sun hit my prickly and partially grown out hair, quite certain that I was not any closer to understanding the mysteries of puberty.
Today my arm hair has fully regrown and as an act of hope and justice, I teach sexuality education to middle schoolers.
When I reflect on the gaps in my own sexuality education—and with each new class that I lead on consent, healthy relationships, or gender identity — ‘sex ed for all’ remains my vision for the future, and my driving motivation for engaging in this work.
Perhaps the oldest (and most misinformed) question in the book asks, “Aren’t your lessons just giving young people permission to have sex and get pregnant?”
When we look to the research, the short and honest answer is, no – quite the opposite. Providing age-appropriate, evidence-based, and comprehensive sexuality education to every person, and throughout every stage of their development, is essential. If we acknowledge that each of us is a sexual being for the entirety of our lives (meaning that all people experience or have some combination of intimacy, sensuality, sexualization, sexual identity, and sexual and reproductive organs), then we also must acknowledge that sexuality education is critical to our development, critical to our health, and critical to how we understand ourselves and those around us. If sexuality plays such an undeniable role in our lives, why wouldn’t we want all people to have the essential knowledge and skills to define their values in order to best navigate the world? Just as we learned the foundations of math and science and built on them in each new year of school, I yearn for the day when sexuality education is universally recognized and adopted with the same widespread acceptance.
Unfortunately, however, widespread acceptance of comprehensive sexuality education is not going to happen overnight. As we continue to build momentum for this movement, we must stay anchored in the proud truths about this work.
One of these truths is that comprehensive and quality sexuality education is not absent of values, but instead, it centers them. In class, if I have done my job well, I have facilitated a space where participants are naming and experiencing their own sense of power, where they are communicating better, and where they are more cognizant of their identities. Sexuality education is a means for participants to wrestle with and better articulate their own values, all while increasing their empathy for others and their sense of justice. The sexuality education classroom can be the practice grounds, where problem- solving and critical thinking come to life. Experiences of this depth and importance are a constant reminder of how removing the unnecessary veil on sexuality is a common good. Buried under narratives of judgment, fear, and shame, sexuality educators like myself and many other champions can help create a new reality.
Additionally, comprehensive and quality sexuality education provides young people with access to information they deserve as well as a consistent, knowledgeable, curious, and non-judgmental adult who is willing to have conversations with them that they may not get anywhere else. One way that I have created this trust in the classroom is inviting students to ask any question and reinforcing that all questions are good questions. I am honest with participants when I am stumped and promise that I will come back the next week with an answer. Reinforcing curiosity has also been established through an ‘anonymous question box.’ In the form of a decorated shoe box, this becomes one of the safer spaces to place their ponderings. With each notecard they submit, I sense that my students start to believe asking these questions is in fact not shameful at all, but rather, liberating. Boiling down the questions I receive, they all seem to ask, in one form or another, “Am I normal?” Whether the topic is masturbation, size of their genitalia, symptoms of puberty, or age of first sexual experience, they are craving to hear someone say that their experience is valid, that they are normal, and that they are not alone.
As a proud facilitator, I believe that each person, young and old, deserves quality and comprehensive sexuality education. ‘Sex Ed for All’ is a powerful goal, and one that is worth being on the front lines for.Wed, 13 May 2020 10:11:06 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/thoughts-sexuality-educatorConversation Tips and Prompts: Talking Is Power 2020https://powertodecide.org/news/conversation-tips-and-prompts-talking-power-2020
Stay-At-Home Champion Tip #1
Watch a tv show or movie together to kick off a discussion about things you’ve just seen.
Shows like Freeform’s The Bold Type or Netflix’s Sex Education are the perfect jumping off point for talks about subjects that may otherwise feel awkward. Plus, you can use the character’s experiences as examples, so no one has to share too many details from their own experiences (or lack thereof).
Stay-At-Home Champion Tip #2
Quantity and quality time together.
If your family is spread out right now organize a group Zoom call so you can eat a meal together. Or if you’re all sheltering in place together have a family night to cook and play games (old fashioned board games are always fun, but if you have a gaming console try having your young person teach you how to play their favorite game).
Consejo para los modelos de los jóvenes
Miren juntos un programa de televisión o una película para comenzar una discusión sobre lo que acaban de ver.
Programas como una telenovela o La Casa de las Flores de Netflix brindan oportunidades para hablar sobre temas que, de otra manera, podrían ser incómodos. Puedes usar las experiencias del personaje como ejemplos para que nadie tenga que compartir los detalles de sus propias experiencias (o falta de esta).
Consejo para los modelos de los jóvenes
Pasar mucho tiempo de calidad juntos.
Si su familia está esparcida en este momento, organice una llamada de Zoom para que puedan cenar juntos. O si están todos juntos, tengan una noche familiar para cocinar y jugar juegos (los juegos de mesa siempre son divertidos, pero si tiene una consola de juegos, pueden preguntarle a su joven cómo jugar su juego favorito).
Stay-At-Home Conversation Prompt #1
Things are weird in the world right now. Are you worried about anything right now that you want to talk about?
It’s a big question, and your young person might need you to take the lead by listing off some things you’re worried about, but times truly are strange and scary right now. It’s important to let your teen know that they’re not alone in feeling anything that they’re feeling.
Stay-At-Home Conversation Prompt #2
What are you passionate about?
A lot of people are using this time to learn new skills or rediscover old hobbies. By asking your young person what they’re passionate about you can not only learn more about them, but also grab the opportunity to learn something new yourself.
Consejo para cómo conversar con los jóvenes
Las cosas son extrañas en el mundo ahora mismo. ¿Estás preocupado por algo de lo que quieras hablar ahora?
Es una gran pregunta, y su joven podría necesitar que tome la iniciativa haciendo una lista de cosas que le preocupan, porque los tiempos realmente son extraños y aterradores en este momento. Es importante que su hijo sepa que no está solo en sentir nada de lo que siente.
Consejo para cómo conversar con los jóvenes
¿Qué te apasiona?
Mucha gente está usando este tiempo para aprender nuevas habilidades o redescubrir pasatiempos antiguos. Al preguntarle a su joven qué le apasiona, no solo puede aprender más sobre ella, pero también aprovechar la oportunidad de aprender algo nuevo usted mismo.Mon, 11 May 2020 10:01:00 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/conversation-tips-and-prompts-talking-power-2020Accessible, Over the Counter Birth Controlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/accessible-over-counter-birth-control
For the more than 19 million women who live in contraceptive deserts, or counties in which they lack reasonable access to a health center offering the full range of birth control methods, getting a prescription for birth control means having to do more than show up to an appointment. It might mean they must find a babysitter, take time off work, or travel long distances to access their preferred birth control method.
It’s time to begin removing barriers like these by making the birth control pill available over the counter. It’s time to #FreeThePill.
May 9 marks 60 years since the FDA first approved the birth control pill in 1960, giving people the freedom to determine their own life path. We can’t wait until 2080 for contraceptive options that better meet people’s needs. Now is the time for a birth control pill that’s available over the counter, covered by insurance, affordable, and accessible to people of all ages.
A recent Teen Vogue poll showed that 76% of young people believe that birth control should be available without a prescription. Alongside groups such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Advocates for Youth, Center for Reproductive Rights, and Planned Parenthood we have joined the #FreeThePill movement, which advocates for creating an over the counter option for birth control.
While condoms, internal condoms, the sponge, spermicide, and emergency contraception are all now available at a pharmacy, other more effective methods remain behind the barrier of a provider-written prescription.
Currently, only California, Colorado, Hawaii, New Mexico, Oregon, Tennessee, and Washington allow for pharmacist-prescribed birth control, a steppingstone on the road to completely over the counter birth control. While specific laws vary based on location, generally, in these states upon entering a pharmacy a person fills out a questionnaire, answers questions about their medical history and other medications, and has their blood pressure taken. Using this information, the pharmacist determines if they’re a good candidate for certain types of hormonal birth control. Like in a provider’s office, pharmacists will also ensure the person understands the effectiveness of the method as well as how to use it.
Research has shown that when the pill moves over the counter it remains a safe and effective method of birth control. And it’s important to note that over the counter birth control pills wouldn’t remove the need to see a doctor regularly for things such as well woman visits, Pap smears, and IUD placement. By removing the barrier of a prescription, we can increase access not just for the 19 million women in deserts, but for everyone across the country.
Doctors support this effort. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has stated it believes that the pill should be available over the counter in the US. And the American Academy of Family Physicians supports over-the-counter access to oral contraception without a prescription. The American Medical Association has also recommended that manufacturers of the pill apply to the Food and Drug Administration for permission to switch from prescription to over-the-counter status.
Access to birth control helps young people to stay in school and complete their education. Access to birth control allows young people to set and achieve goals on their own timelines. Access to birth control gives young people the power to decide. Join us in supporting #FreeThePill by acting now.Thu, 07 May 2020 09:43:42 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/accessible-over-counter-birth-controlDuring COVID-19 People Are Still Saying, “#ThxBirthControl!”https://powertodecide.org/news/during-covid-19-people-are-still-saying-thxbirthcontrol
While the novel coronavirus has turned things upside down in so many ways for so many people, it has also given many of us an opportunity to reflect on the big and small aspects of our lives that we’re thankful for. These seven people are giving a shout-out to their birth control.
Every time I see a tweet about having your period during this pandemic, I think about how grateful I am to have a period-suppressing IUD. I know it’s not a solution for everyone, but I love that piece of plastic so damn much.
— Tabs (@TheLadyInReds) March 26, 2020
Happy belated birthday to my IUD. happy to be watching you instead of a toddler rn while i work from home
— ˗ˏˋ hunter ˎˊ˗ (@HuntrWallce) March 19, 2020
I signed up for my birth control to be delivered to my house and I feel so relieved that I don’t have to worry about it anymore 😌
— Nurse Sam I am 🤪 (@nursesam2019) March 21, 2020
Because of COVID-19 I gave myself my own birth control shot and I feel like a bada** and thats all.
— Stephanie Freeman (@StephIbbotson) March 21, 2020
Thanks birth control for telling me what day it is. You're the #mvp
— Janelle Grace (@JanelleGrace8) April 13, 2020
I just wanna thank my IUD for being there for me during these tough times, hang in there girl 👏🏽
— boba (@Ashhketchemm) March 27, 2020
As I walked my dog around the complex today, I heard children and parents screaming at each other through 4 different windows. I went home and kissed my birth control pack.
— Emmy (@methatsme) April 7, 2020
Yesterday, Tuesday, May 5, was Giving Tuesday. Help others during these difficult times to say #ThxBirthControl give today.
Wed, 06 May 2020 09:54:05 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/during-covid-19-people-are-still-saying-thxbirthcontrolFive Things I’m Grateful for this Giving Tuesday https://powertodecide.org/news/five-things-im-grateful-for-giving-tuesday
Today is #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day to share gratitude and celebrate generosity, and I’ve been thinking a lot about all the things I’m grateful for during these strange and difficult times. Here are five things that are bringing me a little bit of joy these days:
1. Rekindling old passions
I grew up playing the piano, but after I graduated college, frequent moves and small living spaces meant I couldn’t really keep it up. And an added silver lining to rediscovering music? Thanks to social distancing, no one’s around to hear me stumble through the notes.
2. Phone calls
I’ve always preferred calls to texting, but since social distancing began, I’ve noticed that a lot of my friends have gone back to the good old-fashioned phone, too.
3. Kitchen experiments
Successes: brownies made with Guinness beer in the batter, pizza from scratch, and carrot cake cupcakes.
Failures: not important. We’re focusing on the positive.
4. Access to birth control
Knowing I have access to birth control during this time gives me huge peace of mind. And I don’t just speak for myself when I say birth control is a game-changer. Access to contraception buys valuable time for young people to finish their education, get a head start in their careers, and most importantly, decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
5. An incredible community of support
Our community of donors is the engine behind everything we do at Power to Decide, from working to protect and expand contraceptive access to empowering young people with accurate sexual health information. In these challenging times, I’m especially grateful for the supporters of our Contraceptive Access Fund, who are helping young people across the US access the birth control they need and deserve, regardless of their location or insurance status.
Have your own list of things you’re grateful for? Join the #GivingTuesdayNow conversation on social media and tag us @powertodecideTue, 05 May 2020 09:36:26 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/five-things-im-grateful-for-giving-tuesdayHave you connected with your young person lately?https://powertodecide.org/news/have-you-connected-your-young-person-lately
These times may feel overwhelming, but they also provide a unique opportunity to start conversations with young people about critical topics such as sex, love, relationships, and birth control. As a mother I know the importance of sparking these important conversations with my child and I also understand how awkward they may be without a little help.
Beginning May 7, we’re celebrating our 3rd Annual Talking is Power campaign. Throughout the month we encourage champions to have meaningful conversations with the young people in their lives. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, educator, provider, or mentor to a young person, we encourage you to be a champion and join the #TalkingIsPower movement.
Our goal is to help ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. In the coming weeks, we’ll post tools and resources to help spark conversations about sex, love, and relationships. Let us help you be the source of information your young person needs to make informed decisions.
To help you get started we’ve created a variety of content:
If you’re nervous or unsure about how to start talking with your young person, we’ve written a number of conversation prompts you can use to kick things off. We’ll post new prompts soon so make sure to check back!
If your young person watches YouTube, try checking out our Talking is Power playlist together.
You might also find it helpful to read blogs from different perspectives before diving into a conversation with your young person. More blogs will be posted in May.
And make sure to use the Twitter hashtag #TalkingIsPower to see what others are saying and add your thoughts to the mix. Follow the Power to Decide and Bedsider accounts for more tips on talking to your young people about sex, love, and relationships.
You can also share one (or all!) of these messages on your social accounts throughout the month of May to encourage your followers to get on board.
Young people actually prefer hearing about taboo topics like sex, love, and relationships from the adults they trust most. Learn more: https://bit.ly/2Kutt1p #TalkingIsPower
Use birth control as an opportunity to bond and open up the conversation: https://www.bedsider.org/features/311 #TalkingIsPower
Reproductive health is a Latinx family issue too. This May, join us as we show why #TalkingIsPower! Have meaningful conversations with the people you love most—porque la familia es todo https://bit.ly/2G1NoRU Via @WeareMitu
These conversations are important throughout the year which is why we are counting on young adults, champions, and everyone in between to start talking. Conversations about sex, love, relationships, and future goals are key to preparing young people for the futures they envision for themselves. You are the most critical influence in your young person’s life. So, start early and talk often and if you’ve already started, continue the conversation. You’re more powerful than you think!Mon, 04 May 2020 10:50:19 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/have-you-connected-your-young-person-latelyHome-based sexuality education in the time of COVID-19https://powertodecide.org/news/home-based-sexuality-education-time-covid-19
Now in its fifth year, and with funding from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Population Affairs, Innovation Next is a unique accelerator program aimed at redefining adolescent sexual health through a focus on technology-enabled ideas to ensure that young people have the information and access to services they need. Fourth Cohort team Bloom discusses their work so far and what they hope the future holds.
We are now launching our first product, a home-based tool that can help families who are sheltering in place to have big and small talks about tough topics. Our playbooks are focused on kids in grade school and their families, with the hopes of supporting families through these challenging times.
Three years ago, when we joined Innovation Next, we were just a “regular” group of parents. We enjoyed cheering overly enthusiastically from the sidelines of our kids’ soccer games and we felt a sense of shared achievement when we made it, exhausted, to another Friday night, celebrating with pizza and a cold glass of anything.
In 2018, we discovered something that rocked us. Our public school, an amazing place for learning and community, taught sex education using a tube television, VCR, yand a VHS tape from 1984. The lesson took two hours and happened only once, in 5th grade.
We knew from national surveys, and our own harrowing experiences, that more than one in four of our kids will see hardcore pornography online by age 11. They don’t find it; it finds them. That number goes up to two in three kids by age 15. The internet is the leading source of sexuality education in our kids’ lives.
When we asked the teachers and administrators why it hadn’t evolved, they told us that parents — loving and concerned parents — stopped change. We knew that if concerned parents were usually the challenge, we could also be the solution.
And then we received the invitation to join Innovation Next. We were all in, but we didn’t have a clear idea of how to achieve our goal. So, we went out into the world to discover what’s working and get inspired.
We reviewed the scientific literature, read countless human sexuality books, interviewed experts in sexuality and child development, and spent countless hours with parents talking about their hopes and fears around their children’s sexual health. We traveled to the Netherlands to learn from the teachers, parents, and curriculum designers who have created one of the world’s most successful human sexuality curricula. Young people in the Netherlands have more knowledge about sexuality, the delay their first sexual experience later, and they have far fewer pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections than kids in the US.
We learned that modern sexuality education is best when it includes these 4 things:
Sexuality is not just about our middle parts—our reproductive organs. Holistic sexuality is a lifelong exploration of relationships, identity, equity and safety, sensuality and pleasure, and beliefs. Although we found amazing children’s educational materials about human reproductive biology, it was nearly impossible to find resources that considered sexuality in a holistic way.
During our research, we discovered that few kids have access to evidence-based and scientifically-informed resources about human sexuality. The most successful programs helped kids to access the facts they need to stay safe and healthy. The least successful programs, from an evidence-based perspective, relied on fear and shame to motivate kids’ behavior.
During our prototyping, we tried dozens of approaches to helping kids and parents to have discussions about sexuality. So many of them failed. Parents were terrified and kids were grossed out. That is, until we discovered humor, levity, and play. A little fun took the edge off tough topics. Play encouraged curiosity and opened conversations in a way that didn’t assume right or wrong answers. Laughing was the fuel that kept kids and their grown-ups at the table, talking together.
Some of the most celebrated sexuality education books and learning resources are now ten, twenty, or thirty years old. The hopes and expectations for inclusiveness have changed a lot in recent years. Our kids are (and probably always were) gender non-binary, gay, and exploring. Traditional and binary depictions of what kids should look, act, and be like are changing. Families who believe that their girls should be strong and that their boys should have big hearts, for example, struggled to find resources that respected this hope. Learning resources needed to reflect kindness, respect, and dignity for all people and reinforce the idea that loving relationships should be aware of power, fair, and empathic.
We used these four principles to design Bloom Playbooks -- holistic, smart, playful, and inclusive tools to help families have all of the big and small conversations we wish grown-ups had with us when we were young. Each playbook is full of games, stories, and interactive activities for kids and their grown-ups to try out together.
Volume 1 has three playbooks for ages 5+:
Empathy: How to Talk About Kindness
Safety: How to Talk About Secrets
Biology: How to Talk About Bodies
Volume 2 has three playbooks for ages 7+:
Empathy: How to Talk About Friendship
Safety: How to Talk About Boundaries
Biology: How to Talk About Babies
Volume 3 has three playbooks for ages 9+:
Empathy: How to Talk About Crushes
Safety: How to Talk About Safety Online
Biology: How to Talk About Puberty
It has been a long journey. Even though we are exhausted, we are also exhilarated by the encouragement we’ve felt from communities who are sheltering-in-place around the globe. Although this is an incredibly difficult time for families, we also believe that some beautiful things can come from our time together. We hope, in some small way, that Bloom can inspire some laughs, a feeling of closeness, and new knowledge for families of all kinds.
Learn more about our work at www.BloomScience.orgSat, 02 May 2020 11:03:21 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/home-based-sexuality-education-time-covid-19April 2020: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2020-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are six stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Improving Access to Hormonal Contraception Methods
As nearly half of all pregnancies are reported by the women themselves as unplanned, a number of organizations including The American Medical Association and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have endorsed removing FDA restriction on hormonal contraceptive methods and allow them to be sold over the counter. This piece discusses how doing so would improve birth control access across the country.
Adolescents’ Perceptions of Contraception Access through Pharmacies
This study details the results of in-depth interviews with 60 women age 14-21 on their perception of pharmacist prescribed contraception. It found that most expressed interest in the idea and that many found the idea particularly youth friendly. However, concerns were raised about privacy controls and a desire for additional pharmacist training.
Abortion
Abortion is Essential Healthcare
This short brief explains why comprehensive reproductive health care, including abortion services, is essential, even during a pandemic. The authors write that restricting services such as abortion will “undermine public health efforts to respond to COVID-19,” and exacerbate systemic inequities by “placing the health and economic security of pregnant people and families at risk.”
Adolescents Obtaining Abortion Without Parental Consent: Their Reasons and Experiences of Social Support
Little is known about why adolescents choose abortion. This study was conducted with teens (age 16-19) who sought judicial bypass in TX. Most chose abortion to avoid limiting their future yet kept their decision private despite needing social and emotional support. For those that disclosed their decision, some participants reported experiencing stigma, including shame and emotional abuse. Results suggest that policies mandating parental consent may not benefit adolescent decision-making and could possibly expose adolescents to greater harm.
Pregnancy and Birth
Comparing Prospective and Retrospective Reports of Pregnancy Intention in a Longitudinal Cohort of US Women
To date, the majority of measurement studies on pregnancy intention have relied on retrospective reporting, which may underestimate true intention. However, little research has compared the similarity between prospective and retrospective accounts. In this study, longitudinal data were used to assess changes between prospective and retrospective assessments of intendedness. It was found that 38% of participants reported an increase in pregnancy intendedness, while only 10% reported a decrease when assessed retrospectively (vs. prospectively). Among those who gave birth, there was an even greater change.
Pregnant Women's Reasons for and Experiences of Visiting Antiabortion Pregnancy Resource Centers
The reason young women visit pregnancy resource centers is not well understood. In this small study, 21 women discussed their experiences and reason for visiting. Most reported having low incomes and did not report considering an abortion prior to visiting. Rather they chose to go to these centers for free pregnancy-related services, support, and goods. Receipt of services, however, were often limited and dependent on participation in center activities.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Trends and Characteristics of Sexually Transmitted Infections During Pregnancy: United States, 2016–2018
This report details STI rates for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, among woman who gave birth between 2016 and 2018. It found that while in certain age groups the rates decreased, overall rates for all three increased during this time. There was a 2% increase for chlamydia, 16% increase for gonorrhea, and a 34% increase for syphilis.Thu, 30 Apr 2020 10:05:22 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2020-power-updates-editionSpecial Enrollment Periods and Others Ways to Get Insurance Right Nowhttps://powertodecide.org/news/special-enrollment-periods-and-others-ways-get-insurance-right-now
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic (aka coronavirus), 13 states have worked with insurance companies and created special enrollment periods for the uninsured to find coverage.
If you do not have health insurance and are interested in signing up, below are the special enrollment time periods for each state:
California: March 20 to June 30, 2020 (Covered California)
Colorado: March 20 to April 30, 2020 (Connect for Health Colorado)
Connecticut: March 19 to April 17, 2020 (Access Health CT)
District of Columbia: March 24 to June 15, 2020 (DC Health Link)
Idaho: This is a very limited enrollment for those who have recently lost employer-sponsored health insurance as a result of termination, layoff, or furlough due to COVID-19. (Your Health Idaho)
Maryland: March 16 to June 15, 2020 (Maryland Health Connection)
Massachusetts: March 11 to May 25, 2020 (Massachusetts Health Connector)
Minnesota: March 23 to April 21, 2020 (MNSure)
Nevada: March 17 to May 15, 2020 (Nevada Health Link)
New York: March 17 to May 15, 2020 (New York State of Health)
Rhode Island: March 17 to April 30, 2020 (HealthSource RI)
Vermont: March 22 to May 15, 2020 (Vermont Health Connect)
Washington: March 10 to May 8, 2020 (Washington Healthplanfinder)
If you’re one of the more than 3 million people who recently lost their job or health insurance, you may also qualify for health insurance via one of several outlets.
COBRA
A federal rule, COBRA allows people who have lost their job, had their hours reduced, or have experienced certain other life events to keep their health insurance coverage for up to 18 months. For some this is an excellent option as it allows you to continue coverage without any breaks and access the same doctors and networks as before your life event. However, without an employer to pay some of your monthly premium your costs will go up. If you’re interested in this option, do the math before you commit. The Kaiser Family Foundation has a calculator that can help you to estimate what your premium may look like.
ACA Exchange “Qualifying Event”
While most people can only sign up for insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) during the annual open enrollment period, if you experience a “qualifying event” such as losing your job you can go to Healthcare.gov, shop for, and enroll in a plan. Don’t wait too long to find coverage however, as you only have 60 days after you lose your job to apply. With this option you’ll have a choice of plans so you can find something in your preferred price range, but unlike with COBRA you may have to change doctors or networks under your new plan.
Medicaid
Finally, you may now qualify for Medicaid, a federal and state-run program that provides health insurance for people with low incomes. Coverage under Medicaid is either free or low-cost and enrollment is based on your monthly income, so even if you had a higher income prior to losing your job you may still qualify for the program. Most hospitals and many doctors take Medicaid coverage so it’s possible that with this option you may not need to switch providers.
And remember, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that everyone wash their hands often and for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching your face and close contact with others, stay home and wear a face mask if you’re feeling sick, and clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. Read more about their tips here.Mon, 27 Apr 2020 10:17:03 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/special-enrollment-periods-and-others-ways-get-insurance-right-nowWhat’s New With Innovation Next?https://powertodecide.org/news/whats-new-innovation-next
Now in its fifth year, Power to Decide’s Innovation Next program recently selected its fourth cohort of awardees. With support from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Population Affairs, participants are continuing their work to ensure that young people have the information and access to services they need through novel, technology-based ideas.
Each of the nine teams selected have previously participated in Innovation Next. With this funding they plan to bring their existing innovations fully to market, to scale, or to prepare for a randomized control trial. Of course, the selected teams will continue to apply the design thinking approach in their projects.
Composed of three individuals, each group aims to answer one “How might we…” question. The teams and their questions are:
HelloooAmerica: … create culturally and linguistically relevant opportunities and materials for young refugee women aged 18-24 in the U.S. to access and engage with sexual and reproductive health information in a way that equips, empowers, and protects their sexual and reproductive health experiences?
Layla’s Last Week: … use digital media to thoughtfully engage adolescents in experiences of teenage pregnancy and resources for the prevention of teen and unplanned pregnancy?
Design Vagabonds: … leverage existing entertainment preferences to engage young men in sexual health education?
Okayso: … meet teens where they are to answer their questions about sex, love, relationships, and stress in an anonymous way?
Real Talk: meet young people where they are and help them connect with the experiences of other young people navigating the complexities of growing up?
ME. Project: … increase teens’ sense of agency and efficacy over their sexual/reproductive health and mental health, thus reducing STIs and teen pregnancy in under-served communities of color?
Miss Morning After: … better increase accessibility to emergency contraception for low-income teens in urban areas?
Bloom Science: … provide age-appropriate sex education during the grade school years? How might we enable parents to customize their child's sexual health curriculum to meet family needs and aspirations?
Young Parents United: … use technology to create a holistic health and wellness program to support and empower teen parents?
If you want to learn more about the amazing work that some of these teams are doing, check out these blogs on ME. Project and Design Vagabonds, and check back on our blog in coming weeks to see more team interviews. To learn about the challenge every team is addressing, please visit our Innovation Next website and read the team profiles.Mon, 27 Apr 2020 09:35:18 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/whats-new-innovation-nextServing Those Who Servehttps://powertodecide.org/news/serving-those-who-serve
“#ThxBirthControl for letting me control my period in Iraq (nobody wants to change tampons in a sandstorm!)” – Former Army Officer
Reading those words can change your perspective on contraception. Not many of us can imagine changing a tampon in a sandstorm but to some servicemembers it is a reality of active duty.
Women are serving at increasing rates, and comprise more than 17% of members of the Armed Forces. As of 2018, nearly 350,000 women served on active duty. Ninety-five percent of women serving in the Armed Forces are of reproductive age and as of 2017, more than 700,000 female spouses and dependents of members of the Armed Forces on active duty were of reproductive age.
Servicemembers and their families face unique challenges in nearly every aspect of their lives and work, and these circumstances make information, coverage, and access to birth control even more important throughout their service and as veterans. That’s why Power to Decide recently partnered with the Center for Reproductive Rights and Service Women’s Action Network on a new policy brief examining the critical role contraception plays for servicemembers, their dependents, and veterans. Serving Those Who Serve: Contraception Access for Servicemembers and Veterans examines the unique barriers facing servicemembers, their families, and veterans in accessing the birth control method they need, the progress being made to overcome these barriers, and the work still to be done.
Our brief shares how new guidance from the Defense Health Agency (DHA) is helping to address barriers in active-duty servicemembers’ information about and access to contraception, particularly access during deployment. For years servicemembers struggled with insufficient supplies of contraception for the duration of deployment, failures of the mail-order delivery system to replenish their supply, and providers who refused to prescribe the requested birth control because of general orders restricting sexual activity while deployed—missing the point that many servicemembers use contraception for non-contraceptive benefits such as menstrual suppression. The new DHA guidance requires that servicemembers “receive an adequate supply of short-acting reversible contraceptives for the entire length of deployment. If menstrual suppression is planned, extra supply of the chosen method will be ordered and dispensed as necessary to ensure the member has enough active medication for the entire length of deployment.”
The DHA guidance will also help to improve knowledge about sexual health and the full range of contraceptive methods for servicemembers. How can you avoid changing that tampon in a sandstorm if you don’t know there’s birth control methods that can help you not to get your period or to get it less often?
The Navy’s Sexual Health and Responsibility Program (SHARP) program has been doing a great job for over two decades providing high-quality information to all servicemembers in that branch, but education in other branches has largely focused solely on condoms and avoiding STIs. The new DHA guidance requires that all servicemembers receive “comprehensive evidence-based family planning and contraceptive education on all available contraceptive methods, including EC, menstrual suppression, and the prevention of common sexually transmitted infections.”
But when it comes to birth control, there’s still more work to do. Most of us in the civilian world can get our birth control without co-pays or other out-of-pocket costs. Active-duty servicemembers also have their birth control covered without co-pays, but non active-duty servicemembers and dependents—family members covered by TRICARE (the health insurance that covers servicemembers and dependents) —are charged co-pays for their birth control. These costs can be prohibitive for some, causing them to either forgo contraception entirely or to use a method not right for them, which can then lead to unplanned pregnancy. Everyone deserves the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child, and this must include eliminating cost barriers for ALL those who serve and their families.
Another group we must do better by is veterans. Most veterans receiving their care through the Veterans Health Agency (VHA) must pay a copay for their contraception. Women are the fastest-growing population of veterans accessing care through the VHA, and female veterans are more likely to live in poverty than male veterans. Again, charging co-pays for birth control could make it cost-prohibitive—especially accessing the specific method a veteran needs.
Contraception makes so many things possible for people—educational attainment, economic security, and career achievements to name a few. Our military servicemembers, their families, and our veterans deserve to reap these benefits too. While progress has been made, there’s more work to do before we can say we’re truly serving all those who serve with the birth control they deserve so they can face any sandstorm!Tue, 21 Apr 2020 12:17:33 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/serving-those-who-serveWhat a Healthy Relationship Looks Like: Teen Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-healthy-relationship-looks-teen-edition
In April we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month. One in three teens in the US will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse during a relationship. Nearly half of women will experience it in college. So, you may ask, how can you tell the difference between a healthy and unhealthy relationship?
It can actually be broken down into a couple of different factors: using coercion and threats, intimidation, emotional abuse, isolation, children, male privilege, or minimizing, denying and blaming abuse on their partner to control them. More specific examples include your partner not letting you see your friends, constantly looking through your phone, telling you what you can or can’t wear, or even acting like the abuse never happened in the first place (aka gaslighting). Dating violence can affect anyone, no matter their age, gender, religion, or race, whether they themselves are the perpetrator or the victim.
Here are some ways you can ensure you have and maintain a healthy relationship:
Communication
Good communication is key to any relationship. Expressing your thoughts or feelings and resolving anything before it becomes an argument is a great indicator that the communication you and your partner have is working. If it does get to the point of an argument, the most important thing to remember is to respect the other person and come to terms with the fact that they may have a different perspective or viewpoint. Disagreeing shouldn’t mean yelling, feeling unsafe, or getting physical. In a healthy relationship, both partners should feel heard and understood, ultimately coming to an agreement or compromise.
Keep Your Individuality
When you’re with your partner, are you being your most authentic self? Yes, it’s a cheesy question, but it’s important to think about. Being around someone you love should feel comfortable, as you shouldn’t have to worry that they’re going to judge you or criticize you. You should feel safe and know that they will accept you for who you are. If you have to change yourself or are convincing yourself you can change someone else so you can be compatible, that might be a sign it’s not the best fit.
That doesn’t mean you should be identical twins! Having different interests or styles can make life interesting. Try embracing the differences you have with your partner. For example, if you enjoy different interests or hobbies, you and your partner can both learn more about each other from the other’s favorite things to do. Additionally, it’s okay to not spend every second with your significant other. A strong relationship is one in which you and your partner can be apart and happy, still knowing that you’re together at heart always.
Know Your Boundaries
Safety is something that cannot be negotiated. Ever. You should never feel unsafe when you’re with your partner, and if you do, it’s not healthy nor is it normal. Talk to your partner about how you’re feeling, but don’t be afraid to tell someone else as well. Reach out and get help if you feel unsafe or like your partner is pushing your emotional and/or physical boundaries.
Relax and Have Fun
We’re only teens once, and hey, what do we have to lose?
The time you and your partner spend together should be fun for the both of you. You don’t need to do anything super extravagant to have a great time. Whether you’re going to the movies or spending quality time together at home what’s important is that you both feel respected, listened to, and loved.
Hotlines/More information:
National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233)
LoveisRespect (1-866-331-9474), text “loveis” to 22522, or chat at loveisrespect.org
The Trevor Project (1-866-488-7386)
Teenwire.org
In the end, being in a relationship should be a positive aspect of your life. Not every single day may be the best with your partner, but there should never be a point where you feel unsafe or unable to express how you’re feeling.
Anna Labarca is a senior at Walt Whitman High School in Maryland. She writes for the student newspaper, The Black and White. She plans to study journalism in college and is interning at Power to Decide to learn more about the role communications has in campaigns.
Mon, 20 Apr 2020 10:53:42 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-healthy-relationship-looks-teen-edition5 Questions with Stacey D. Stewart, President & CEO, March of Dimeshttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-questions-stacey-d-stewart-president-ceo-march-dimes
March of Dimes is a national non-profit organization fighting for the health of all moms and babies. The Arlington, VA-based organization began that fight more than 80 years ago as an organization dedicated to eradicating polio, a goal they achieved. Today, March of Dimes works to address some of the biggest threats to moms and babies, such as premature birth and maternal mortality through research, education, programs, and advocacy. As a non-partisan organization, March of Dimes fights to ensure that all women who choose to have a baby have the information and resources necessary to have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth. Alongside Power to Decide, they recently announced their support for the Momnibus Act, which aims to improve the lives of Black mothers by reducing disparities in maternal health.
March of Dimes President and CEO Stacey D. Stewart recently talked with us about her experiences as a mom and a professional whose work is devoted to supporting healthy moms and babies.
Black women are more than three times as likely to die from a pregnancy-related death than their white counterparts. What do you think needs to change (or start to happen) to improve health outcomes for Black mothers and their babies?
Yes, that’s correct. The statistic is eye-opening and an important data point regarding the state of maternal and infant health in our country. The fact is, every 12 hours a woman dies due to complications resulting from pregnancy and every two hours, we lose a baby. Women of color reading this won’t be surprised to learn this problem doesn’t affect all American women equally. For Black and Brown women who are age 30 or older, the number of pregnancy-related deaths per 100,000 live births is approximately 4 to 5 times that of white women. Black women also have a preterm birth rate that’s 50% higher than that of white women.
The causes of our nation’s maternal and infant health crisis are complex and include physical health, mental health, social determinants, and much more. They can be traced back to issues in our health care system, including quality of care, systemic problems, and implicit bias. They stem from factors in our homes, our workplaces, and our communities.
There are several things we can do to improve health outcomes and address inequity head on. First, we can all take a greater role in building awareness in our communities to fight systemic inequities and rally support for solutions. Second, we can advocate for state and federal policies that protect the health of moms and babies. In an election year, that’s more important than ever. Third, we must put equity front and center in the fight for the health of all moms and babies. On the national level, policymakers must support legislation that improve data collection, helps end provider bias toward women of color, improves access to health care in places where there are few maternity care providers, and extends Medicaid coverage to women for a year after pregnancy.
Black women encounter discrimination and bias in clinical and health-care settings from providers, which contributes to disparities in care. Advocating for oneself in the exam room is crucial but can be extremely difficult. How would you advise expectant mothers, especially Black moms, to stand up for their needs? What can others do to lend support?
This is such an important issue that you’re raising. There’s a long, storied history of implicit bias in the health care system, where African American women receive inferior care. And, it’s a burden to feel that we must push back against a medical establishment that often dismisses us. But it’s your health care providers’ jobs to take care of you. I encourage all women to speak up and ask questions if they feel their provider isn’t listening to them or acting in their best interest.
I’m proud that at March of Dimes, we’re pushing back against systemic bias and stigma by launching implicit bias training for health care providers. We are working alongside an expert organization with a proven track record to develop a unique learning experience that is authentic and compelling for clinical providers caring for women in the preconception, pregnancy, and/or postpartum periods. The curriculum will cover an understanding of origins of implicit bias, a historical overview of structural racism in our country, strategies to mitigate racial bias in maternity care, and a commitment to create a culture of equity. This is a critical feature that demonstrates how lessons learned during the training can be extended to create system-wide change.
Has your experience as a mom changed the way you approach your work with March of Dimes?
I am the proud mother of two beautiful daughters. While I was fortunate to have two healthy pregnancies, I witnessed close friends experience loss and miscarriages. I know that as an African American woman I was considered blessed to carry my daughters to term. I come to work every day committed to ending the maternal health crisis in this country. It is my goal that when my girls are ready to have children of their own, birth outcomes for all women and especially women of color will have greatly improved.
As a working mom, it is important to me that I prioritize moms and families at March of Dimes. For example, when we moved our headquarters to the Washington, DC area, I ensured that nursing rooms were included in the office design so that both lactating staff and visitors could pump in a comfortable space. I also revamped our maternity and paternity leave policy because we know how important it is that mom spend time with baby in those first few months. I remember that is was an incredible stressful time when my daughters were born. I felt the need to choose between work and motherhood. At March of Dimes, I want our employees to feel empowered and know that the balance is possible.
What did you learn during either of your pregnancies that you want other expectant mothers to know? Is there anything you’ve learned in your role at the March of Dimes that you wish you’d known then?
While I always knew I wanted to be a mom, I took time to establish my career first. As a result of life’s circumstances, I became a mother later in life. I am so thankful that I was fortunate enough to have a safe pregnancy even though there was an increased risk due to my age. My father, who was a physician, taught me to prioritize my health and live a healthy lifestyle. I am certain my overall good health positively contributed to the birth of my daughters. While good health alone does not prevent all pregnancy complications, it helps to get your pregnancy off to a good start. It is so important that women focus on their health early on in their lives and continue to do so before they become pregnant. I would also encourage all expectant mothers to manage their stress as best they can especially in these uncertain times. A healthy lifestyle includes managing stress, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and taking care of your mental health.
How can allies advocate for and help reduce disparities in Black maternal health without talking over the voices of Black people? What is one thing you wish everyone knew – and would do—to lend support?
First, we have a proud legacy of working with health care providers, hospitals, corporate partners, pregnant woman, and their families, as well as many others across the country to address the maternal and infant health crisis our country is facing. We have always convened different and varied voices around the table because these are issues that can’t be solved by one person or organization alone.
I also think all women, men, and children have a voice to share because these are issues that should concern all of us. We have a lot of work to do as a country and I think the more people who speak these hard truths, the more powerful and impactful our voice will be. I would also ask anyone who wants to get involved, but doesn’t know where to start, to reach out to us. We offer a variety of ways to make a difference -- from volunteer opportunities, to advocating on federal and state policies, to making a donation to support critical research that will help save lives.
What is March of Dimes doing in light of the current pandemic to support maternal and infant health?
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic is only compounding the current maternal and infant health crisis facing our nation. We, like many others, are concerned about pregnant women and babies who may be at greater risk of becoming sick and not receiving the care they need. As we face this public health crisis together, it is more important than ever that we come together to support moms, babies, and families. To that end, we’re sharing important health information on MarchofDimes.org and our social media channels (@marchofdimes) every day.
Last month, we also launched the COVID-19 Vaccine and Support Fund to address the urgent need for research, advocacy, and education to protect moms, babies, and families from COVID-19 and the unknown future effects of the virus. We have a responsibility to direct efforts, including funds, to deliver on the unmet needs of the populations we serve, most notably, women who may become pregnant, pregnant women, and newborns. In far too many cases, especially as it pertains to vaccine research and testing, pregnant and lactating women are not accounted for or included in solutions and outcomes. To learn more about the fund and how you can help, please visit marchofdimes.org.Thu, 16 Apr 2020 09:08:24 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-questions-stacey-d-stewart-president-ceo-march-dimesSupporting Black Mothers https://powertodecide.org/news/supporting-black-mothers
As we celebrate Black Maternal Health Week from April 11-17, it’s critical that we better understand the unique challenges and circumstances that black women face in controlling their reproductive well-being. This year’s theme, “Centering Black Mamas: The Right to Live and Thrive,” reminds us to look beyond statistics to potential solutions, which is exactly what legislation currently introduced in Congress seeks to achieve.
We have joined more than 100 other organizations, including the NAACP, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, March of Dimes, and In Our Own Voice, in signing on as a supportive organization to the newly introduced Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2020 or the ‘Momnibus.’ Composed of nine bills, this legislative package seeks “to comprehensively improve maternal health outcomes and close racial disparities in outcomes.”
Led by Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL) and Alma Adams (NC) in the House and Senator Kamala Harris (CA) in the Senate, each bill in the package is the Momnibus package is sponsored by different members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus .
In a statement, Representative Underwood said that the legislative package “is a sweeping effort to address our nation’s maternal mortality crisis through effective, evidence-based, and culturally competent solutions… New moms and their children and families deserve nothing less.”
In America today, black women are more than three times as likely to die from a pregnancy-related death than their white counterparts. They are also more than twice as likely to lose an infant to premature death. In fact, the United States is the most dangerous country in the developed world to give birth for all women.
Our CEO, Ginny Ehrlich, said of the act, “Everyone - regardless of the color of their skin, their zip code or their income – deserves equitable systems of support to achieve reproductive well-being, including the ability to have healthy outcomes for themselves and for their children.”
The nine bills that make up the Momnibus will build on and fill gaps in existing legislative. As summarized by the Caucus’s announcement, the legislation will:
Make critical investments in social determinants of health that influence maternal health outcomes, like housing, transportation, and nutrition. (Social Determinants for Moms)
Provide funding to community-based organizations that are working to improve maternal health outcomes, particularly for Black women (The Kira Johnson Act).
Comprehensively study the unique maternal health risks facing women veterans and invest in VA maternity care coordination. (Protecting Moms Who Served)
Grow and diversify the perinatal workforce to ensure that every mom in America receives maternity care and support from people she can trust. (Perinatal Workforce)
Improve data collection processes and quality measures to better understand the causes of the maternal health crisis in the United States and inform solutions to address it. (Data to Save Moms)
Invest in maternal mental health care and substance use disorder treatments. (Moms MATTER)
Improve maternal health care and support for incarcerated women. (Justice for Incarcerated Moms)
Invest in digital tools like telehealth to improve maternal health outcomes in underserved areas. (Tech to Save Moms)
Promote innovative payment models to incentivize high-quality maternity care and continuity of health insurance coverage from pregnancy through labor and delivery and up to 1 year postpartum. (IMPACT to Save Moms)
Mon, 13 Apr 2020 09:37:21 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/supporting-black-mothersApril 2020 Power Womxnhttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2020-power-womxn
We’re committed to uplifting the amazing womxn in tech who are working to ensure that everyone – no matter who they are or where they live – can achieve reproductive well-being. Brought to you by Pandia Health, we are pleased to launch the Power Womxn series in which we will feature womxn FemTech leaders and founders who are out to change the world!
This month’s Power Womxn is Dr. Sophia Yen, CEO and Co-founder of Pandia Health.
Why has Pandia Health decided to support the Power Womxn series?
As the only female founder and CEO of a company that specializes in telehealth prescriptions and home delivery of birth control, I want company. There are simply not enough womxn in FemTech and those who are get less recognition compared to their male counterparts. So, my vision for this series is that it showcases the amazing womxn leaders and founders in this space, as well as inspires other womxn to become FemTech founders and leaders.
Why is featuring the FemTech space so important to you?
FemTech is an emerging space that is so important to supporting womxn in meeting their reproductive and sexual health goals. Information is power and access is essential for this to happen, and the digital space allows us to scale that access more quickly.
What inspired you to start/lead your company?
My lifelong passion is preventing unplanned pregnancy and make womxn’s lives better. Six years ago, I was giving a talk to physicians covering the reasons why womxn don’t take their birth control, and one of the top reasons cited was “they didn’t have it on hand.” So, we thought, what if we shipped birth control pills right to womxn’s doors to eliminate that barrier? We learned early on that 60% of women who respond to an online ad for “free birth control delivery” lacked a prescription. So, we added that service as well to provide access, which is now available in California, Florida, and Texas. Our goal is to be the end-to-end solution for women who don’t want to get pregnant right now or who need birth control for other uses such as PCOS, endometriosis, painful periods, and heavy periods.
How does your work help give people the tools to achieve reproductive well-being?
Pandia Health is the only women founded, women led, doctor led company in birth control delivery. This gives us a competitive edge because as that leader, I have a better pulse on what womxn want and need. I live, breathe, eat, and prescribe birth control. I’m building this company to make my life, my friends’ lives, my daughter’s lives better.
We offer women the end-to-end solution to avoid an unplanned pregnancy or to take one thing off your “to do” list and allow you to #SkipTheTrip to the pharmacy each month and do so with high quality and client-centered care, convenience, and confidentiality. A part of that quality care is to ensure that our clients understand that we are not a replacement for their primary care providers. We educate and encourage our clients to keep up with their well womxn visits, PAP smears, and other screenings (such as annual sexually transmitted infection testing for those under age 26 and for those that are sexually active).
At Pandia Health, our mission is not only about service delivery, but education as well. In addition to ensuring that our clients get smart about what preventative health care they need, I have become quite passionate about destigmatizing birth control by calling it a “hormonal treatment” versus “birth control.”
Womxn – and people with uteri don’t need to have periods. Pandia Health’s #periodsoptional campaign is intended to normalize that notion. This is an equity issue. #periodproblems are the top reason that womxn under age 25 miss school or work – and having bleeds each month is unnecessary. My personal example is that I was a pre-med at MIT taking my biochemistry final. All of a sudden, I felt the familiar painful onset of my period. I looked to my left and right and the two men beside me were taking their exam with no worries. I, on the other hand, was freaking out. Do I run to the bathroom or do I finish the exam? (As a premed, I finished the exam and then ran to the bathroom.) However, those without uteri don’t have this problem. And speaking of products, imagine the reduction in landfill if womxn didn’t bleed every month. I’m very passionate about these issues. But that said, I also think that every public and employer bathroom should stock free maxi pads and tampons for womxn who choose to have periods.
How would you define success for your company and for the FemTech space, more generally?
Pandia Health is already successful in that it can ship birth control pills to all 50 states and prescribe in three of the largest states – California, Florida, and Texas. My vision is to be able to prescribe in all 50 states and thus fully serve women in all of the US. Most importantly, we are building the brand womxn trust with their health.
The FemTech space will be successful when all womxn have all of the accessible and affordable technology they need to be make their lives healthier.
How do you see the FemTech space changing in the next 5 years? What are you looking forward to?
There are many inventions on the horizon. I’m particularly interested in the menopause space. It’s another area that womxn are not educated about and that is “in the dark.” It’s time we bring it to light. FemTech facilitates womxn and men and allies talking more about womxn’s health and their problems and providing digital support/solutions. We, as womxn, suffer quietly and we shouldn’t have to.
What advice what you give other womxn looking to get into FemTech?
We all need to support one another. Make sure to build your tribe and get supported for what you’re doing. Let’s help each other rise!Mon, 06 Apr 2020 09:36:13 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2020-power-womxnMarch 2020: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2020-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are seven stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Hormonal Contraception Prescribing by Pharmacists: 2019 Update
Currently, some of the barriers people face when accessing contraception include, but aren’t limited to, a lack of accessibility to a provider, cost, and limited appointment availability. If pharmacists could prescribe birth control that may help to alleviate these challenges. This paper details the current state of pharmacist prescribing in each of the nine states that currently authorize the practice and compares the differences between state laws.
History of Unintended Pregnancy and Patterns of Contraceptive Use Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Women Veterans
This study looked at variations in unintended pregnancy and use of birth control in Hispanic and black women who have previously served in the armed forces. Although veterans have more universal access to health care than non-veteran populations, the study found significant racial and ethnic disparities in contraceptive use between white, Hispanic, and black women veterans. While nearly 95% of veterans used a method of contraception at last sex, white women were more likely to have used a prescription method of birth control than Hispanic or black women.
Universal Access to Contraception: Women, Families, and Communities Benefit
In this paper the authors argue for universal contraceptive access, writing, “As obstetrician-gynecologists, we have a critical mandate, based on principle and mission, to step up with leadership on this vital medical and public health issue, to improve the lives of women, their families, and society.”
A Counter-Narrative of the Contraceptive Experiences of Low-Income Latinas
It’s well documented that when people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child they are more likely to seek higher education, advance in their careers, and have greater reproductive well-being. Yet, racial disparities in contraceptive use exist, especially among Latina women. Through focus groups and in-depth interviews with 16 Latinas, many of the commonly held assumptions for why Latinas are less likely to use birth control compared to their non-Latina peers are explored.
Over-the-Counter Oral Contraceptives to Reduce Unintended Pregnancies
This article argues in favor of legalizing certain forms of birth control to be “over-the-counter,” or available without a prescription. The authors track federal, state, and non-profit efforts advocating for over-the-counter contraception. They believe that there is enough long-term safety data available to eliminate the need for a prescription with certain contraceptives, and that the benefits of making birth control available over the counter will increase access for many people in the United States.
Commentary on Research to Improve Contraceptive and Multipurpose Prevention Technologies
This piece advocates for greater investment into research and development for new methods of contraception. The authors write that as the population of perspective users of birth control grows to an estimated 1.68 billion people worldwide, it’s now imperative to create products that can best address the diverse needs of people so as to encourage widespread and consistent use of birth control.
Pregnancy and Birth
Adoption of Medicaid Expansion Is Associated with Lower Maternal Mortality
This study found that in states that expanded Medicaid under the ACA, maternal mortality rates were significantly lower than in states that chose not to expand Medicaid. The disparity between these states only increased when looking at late maternal deaths (or deaths in women who did not die in childbirth, but in the first year afterwards). Expansion of the program also impacted black mothers more than other racial groups, suggesting that a lack of Medicaid access could be a contributing factor in racial disparities.Tue, 31 Mar 2020 14:22:05 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2020-power-updates-editionCatching Up with Design Vagabondshttps://powertodecide.org/news/catching-design-vagabonds
Now in its fifth year, and with funding from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Population Affairs, Innovation Next is a unique accelerator program aimed at redefining adolescent sexual health through a focus on technology-enabled ideas to ensure that young people have the information and access to services they need. Fourth Cohort team, Design Vagabonds discusses their work so far and what they hope the future holds.
How did you first hear about Innovation Next and how did you form your team?
We were originally a third cohort team, so this is our second year participating in the Innovation Next initiative. We heard about Innovation Next while working on another grant and it immediately interested us. But the application process was very competitive, so we didn’t make it the first time we applied! When we applied the second time and made it, we were very excited.
Unlike many of the other Innovation Next teams, ours is entirely in-house. We all work for Healthy Teen Network, a Baltimore-based, national nonprofit that promotes better outcomes for adolescents and young adults. We believe that working together prior to this project has given us a great base to build from as we all bring very different skills to the table, but also, we know how to work well together and tackle problems as a team.
What was your team's original idea for Innovation Next?
Going into the application process, we had two ideas we wanted to explore. The first involved leveraging young men’s gaming behavior to insert educational messages into popular, established games. Our second idea was to develop an app-based game that worked like a self-led intervention, which would allow young men to learn about their sexual health as they followed the story.
Did your idea change once you began the Innovation Next design process?
Yes! We’ve pivoted completely! We kept ourselves very open, and from the very first Innovation Next training, we scrapped both our initial ideas.
We are now working to develop Wingman, an alternative, suggestive keyboard for the phone to help young men ages 18-24 navigate tough conversations around sexual health with their partner. Using machine learning, Wingman will help keep conversations going by prompting users to discuss important subjects such as consent and birth control before they get in bed. Wingman also helps young people overcome uncertainty or shame when communicating with their partner about sex.
How did Innovation Next cause you to think outside of the box?
While we had some experience with design thinking prior to Innovation Next, this program gave us the physical and mental space we needed to brainstorm and explore new ideas without fear of failure. Having that space allowed us to dream big while staying grounded on our core question, “How might we harness current media preferences to encourage safe and pleasurable sexual experience? ”
We spoke and listened to our target audience with our researcher ears. But because of the trainings from Innovation Next, we tuned those ears to help us hear better what young people said. For example, we realized that a lot of young men learned by listening to other young men’s stories. So we considered some solutions that involved storytelling. However, what was more salient to us is how young men are sharing their sexual likes and dislikes with a partner over text, but when it comes time to ask about safer sexual practices, they feel awkward and embarrassed. So, we explored how we could take a platform that they use all the time (their smartphone keyboard) and integrate an easy-to-use communication solution.
What is your biggest takeaway from Innovation Next?
The process of gathering insights changed for us from a highly structured standardized research process to an open, fluid interview process. Now, we’re looking for something slightly different, and we’re listening with a different ear. We ask different questions. And we ask more questions! It’s been an incredible journey where we have learned to feel comfortable in the space of ambiguity and making sense of very messy research processes.
What future goals do you all have for this program?
We have so many goals for Wingman! In the future, we hope to get millions of users and become wildly successful, of course!
But in the next year or so, we’d like to come up with a solid strategy on how to best acquire users, how to monetize the app so that it can be self-sustaining, and how to optimize the machine learning so that the predictive text is as useful as possible for all users and their specific situations. But overall, we hope Wingman contributes to a culture of sex positivity and that machine learning and artificial intelligence is seen as way to tangibly support youth’s sexual health. Mon, 30 Mar 2020 09:54:40 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/catching-design-vagabondsSuffrage, Protesting, and the Trailblazing Women from Then and Nowhttps://powertodecide.org/news/suffrage-protesting-and-trailblazing-women-then-and-now
This August marks the 100th anniversary of women earning the right to vote. The right didn’t come without a whole lot of fight from remarkable suffragists, such as Lucretia Mott, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Ida B. Wells, Alice Paul, and Carrie Chapman Catt, who led the movement around the turn of the 20th century. Many who fought for this fundamental right never saw their movement’s success. At the time when society believed women should stay in the private sphere, these women broke down barriers, entered the public sphere, and publicly protested and advocated for their right to participate in politics.
Fast forward 100 years and here we are, still protesting. Still standing up for our basic rights. While women have come a long way since the passage and ratification of the 19th Amendment, we still have a long way to go to realize the full equality these suffragists set out to achieve. For centuries people have stood up to their governments and expressed their grievances and demanded change through protests. Over the last century, many protests organized and populated by women have centered around our rights: the right to vote, the right to hold the same degree and job as a man, the right to privacy in our own homes, and the right to do what we want with our bodies. For Women’s History Month, we’re looking back on some movements that women have led over the last 120 years.
Suffrage Parade 1913
There would be no women’s movement without the suffrage movement. The women of this movement demanded that the government see and hear them. Bravery pushed them to challenge the status quo and show society that women could work outside the home. One of the monumental events of this movement was the 1913 Suffrage Parade, which took place on the eve of President Woodrow Wilson’s inauguration. More than 5,000 women from across the country marched down Pennsylvania Avenue, marking the first civil rights demonstration in the US capital. Lucretia Mott and Alice Paul, who strove for women’s full equality and eventually helped women secure the right to vote, powerfully led this march with the other suffragist leaders.
Like many of the movements that followed, racial tensions and divisions rang true in the suffrage movement with black women’s voices left behind. Women of color like Sojourner Truth and Frances E.W. Harper were vital voices in the movement working for universal suffrage. As the suffrage movement progressed, it was largely seen as a white women’s movement as Black women were barred from some demonstrations or forced to walk behind white women in others. Victories that came after this march largely are attributed to these brave, powerful women.
The ERA & Uprising of Women in the 1960’s
As the 1900’s progressed and women (mostly white) moved into the public sphere, they started getting jobs outside the home, typically as secretaries, nurses, and teachers. Betty Friedan published The Feminine Mystique in 1963 which explored how gender roles suppressed women. The term Feminine Mystique, “describes the societal assumption that women could find fulfillment through housework, marriage, sexual passivity, and child rearing alone.” Reading Friedan’s book helped many women realize they weren’t alone in feeling fed up and unhappy with the social constraints and gender roles put on them.
Second wave feminism, also known as the women’s liberation movement, focused on equal pay, sexual harassment and assault, domestic abuse, abortion, and childcare. Leaders such as Gloria Steinem and Florynce Kennedy, as well as groups such as the League of Women Voters and the National Organization of Women, pushed the feminist agenda. During the second wave, many black activists branched off because they felt the movement was not representing their voices, stories, and concerns. The National Black Feminist Organization was founded to incorporate these voices and bring an intersectional lens to the movement.
Many of these issues found a home in the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) which stated, “Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.” While in 1972 the ERA passed through Congress, it fell a few states short of ratification. Protests continued into the early 1980’s urging Congress to extend the deadline for ratification. Many of these protests focused on working conditions, equal pay, and sexual assault and harassment.
Since then, the ERA has been introduced before every session of Congress, and just this year the House of Representatives passed a bill to revive the ERA. Yet it still has not been ratified.
Access to Contraception
Also in the 1960’s, the Supreme Court affirmed the constitutional right to privacy and therefore couples’ right to use birth control in Griswold v. Connecticut in 1965. This case set the precedent used in Eisenstadt v. Baird, in 1972 which later allowed unmarried women to use birth control. Then in 1973, the landmark Supreme Court case Roe v. Wade guaranteed women’s right to an abortion. Women not only realized their professional, personal, and sexual independence during these decades, but took to the streets and demanded their rights to bodily autonomy. It is important to note that during this time, black women were advocating to stop the forced sterilization of women of color, which was largely left out in the reproductive freedom movement.
Women’s March 2017
January 21, 2017, marked the largest single-day protest in US history, with as many as 4.6 million people attending marches around the country. In Washington, DC alone, over 500,000 people marched through the streets with their pink “pussy hats.” The Women’s March responded not only to the behavior and rhetoric of incoming President Trump, but the policies that he promised to enact. Issues such as health care, reproductive freedom, immigration, LGBTQ rights, racial equality, equal pay, and xenophobia were among the top priorities of the attendees. The March extended overseas with thousands in other countries standing in solidarity with the people of the United States.
Marching for Access to Reproductive Health Care
Since the 2016 election our nation has seen a slew of reproductive health attacks against people across the nation, from abortion bans and restrictions that would leave millions without a place to go, to lots of attacks on birth control coverage and access. Already, more than 19 million women with low incomes live in contraceptive deserts, counties where they lack reasonable access to a health center offering the full range of contraceptive methods. These women already struggle to afford care, depending heavily on a safety net beleaguered by an onslaught of attacks—the Title X gag rule, attacks on Medicaid family planning care, and efforts to undermine the ACA’s no co-pay contraception rule. Power to Decide has joined with partner organizations and organized rallies across the country to stand up and protect women’s full access to the full range of reproductive health services.
These are just some of the protests and movements that women have led, but each one produced tremendous change in the women’s movement and raised awareness for not only women’s issues, but for the importance of intersectionality. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us remember how far we have come, but also how far we still must go. Progress is not victory. Let your member of Congress know your concerns about certain policies. Get involved. Go vote. Be heard.
Thu, 26 Mar 2020 09:23:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/suffrage-protesting-and-trailblazing-women-then-and-nowA Special Message from Our CEOhttps://powertodecide.org/news/special-message-our-ceo
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I hope that you and your loved ones are healthy and safe. These times are unquestionably tumultuous and unsettling, and the emanating effects of COVID-19 on the lives and livelihoods of so many around the globe is staggering.
The Power to Decide team and I are continuing our work, remotely. We remain dedicated to ensuring that everyone—no matter who they are or where they live—have the information, access, and agency they need to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
Now more than ever, access to health care, including reproductive health care, remains incredibly important. To protect health care facility capacities for those most in need right now and to protect our own health, we are updating Bedsider to provide the most up to date information about obtaining hormonal birth control and other health care services via telehealth solutions. Many states are opening special enrollment periods for their Affordable Care Act plans and we are updating information about what states are doing so and how to enroll as well. Lastly, if you are feeling grateful about your own circumstances amidst so many people who have lost their livelihoods as a result of the pandemic and want to help, consider donating to our Contraceptive Access Fund, giving to someone in need the ability to get the birth control they need and deserve.
We are also working with our sister organizations to promote policies and regulations that will expand health care access and support other safety net services for people in need. Specifically, we are fighting to ensure that non-profit health centers are eligible for small business loans included in any stimulus package and increased federal Medicaid dollars to states to help support the increase in need for the program.
Many of you are sheltering in place with your loved ones, including the young people in your lives. Such intensive time at home with your young person is the perfect time to start conversations about sex, love, relationships, and their futures. If you want some tips about how to jumpstart the conversation or manage “sex talks,” please take a look at our Talking Is Power resources.
Together, we can help support the reproductive well-being so many in our nation who are more in need now than ever. We know that we – collectively – will get through this challenging time. We look forward to working with you and to doing our small part to be a part of the solution.
Stay safe and well,
Ginny Ehrlich, CEO, Power to DecideWed, 25 Mar 2020 13:30:39 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/special-message-our-ceo5 Reasons to Wish the ACA Happy Birthdayhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-reasons-wish-aca-happy-birthday
The coronavirus, COVID-19, has put a spotlight on the importance and need for a well-functioning public health system and health care access for all. Ten years ago, the Affordable Care Act (ACA)—better known to many as Obamacare—was an important first step toward that goal, especially with increasing the number of insured people. Below I highlight five big gains for women’s physical and economic health made possible by the ACA.
Note, if you or someone you know is uninsured and live in one of the states with a special enrollment period due to the COVID-19 outbreak, you may be able to get insured now.
As of December 2019, most insurance plans are required to provide 12 Women’s Preventive Services with no out-of-pocket costs. Zero, Zilch, None! The goal of this broad array of services—which includes well women visits; contraception, counseling, and follow-up care; counseling for STIs; screening for HIV, breast cancer, and interpersonal violence; breastfeeding services, and support and more—is to increase health across the lifespan.
And don’t forget the men in your life because the ACA is looking after their needs too. Share with them what is, and isn’t covered, when it comes to their sexual health.
An estimated 61.4 million women are eligible for the preventive health services mentioned above.
In a single year, women saved at least $1.4 billion (!) in out-of-pocket costs for birth control pills, thanks to the ACA’s birth control benefit (see #1 above). There’s also evidence that the provision is increasing the ability of women to obtain more effective birth control methods for those who want them.
While the birth control benefit is still being challenged in the courts, it remains the law of the land (a frequent refrain of ours these days). If you are having trouble accessing your birth control without a co-pay, head over to Cover Her hotline.
No pre-existing conditions can impact your ability to get insured. Before the ACA, having a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, an abnormal result on a PAP test, or pregnancy—yes, seriously pregnancy—could be enough for a private insurer to deny you coverage or charge you an increased premium. Needless to say, this is a very important provision for everyone. An estimated 67 million women and girls have a pre-existing condition and a recent Kaiser survey found nearly half of all non-elderly families have at least one adult with a pre-existing condition.
Between 2013 and 2018 the uninsured rate for women of reproductive age dropped a whopping 40% nationwide. The gains were much larger in states that expanded Medicaid than in those that didn’t (52% decrease in uninsured women v. 27%). And while there were big decreases in the uninsured rate for women of color, inequities remain—underscoring the need for continued action, not a reversal of these policies.
Unfortunately, these gains are at risk due to the two lawsuits pending before the Supreme Court (one on birth control and one on the entire ACA). That’s why it is more important than ever to make sure policymakers know you want and need the protections provided by the ACA. In addition, you can help us in our advocacy work by sharing with us how the ACA has afforded you the contraception that is right for you—and the difference it has made for you to pursue your life on your terms.Mon, 23 Mar 2020 09:33:47 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-reasons-wish-aca-happy-birthdayFamily Planning in the Time of Coronavirushttps://powertodecide.org/news/family-planning-time-coronavirus
It’s been said before, but these are certainly unprecedented times. As I write I’m hunkered down in my DC apartment, teleworking and lucky to have a roof over my head, a steady salary, health insurance, and a full fridge (plus toilet paper I bought before I knew just how popular it would be!). I have internet access and a primary care doctor who responds to email. I have a good book and lots of shows to binge watch. I have the ingredients to bake chocolate chip cookies! And, I have my birth control.
I am incredibly lucky. But as the media and local, state, and national officials remind us often these days, not everyone is so lucky. Some people must go to work because their job is deemed essential—shout out to the health care providers putting their lives on the line to care for us, the delivery folks bringing us necessary items, and the woman who sold me my groceries last week! Others have lost jobs because of the closure of most of our country’s service industry. Still more cannot work because they must stay home to take care of children as schools around the nation have closed. Some people are without a home to shelter in. For many of these people hit hard by the economic impacts of this pandemic, difficult choices are being forced on them. What bills should they pay now, and which ones can they forgo?
Amid the serious health and economic consequences of the spread of the novel coronavirus are the tough decisions those struggling to make ends meet must make when it comes to their reproductive well-being, only exacerbated by the current situation. Already, more than 19 million women with low incomes live in contraceptive deserts, counties where they lack reasonable access to a health center offering the full range of contraceptive methods. These women already struggle to afford care, depending heavily on a safety net beleaguered by an onslaught of attacks—the Title X gag rule, attacks on Medicaid family planning care, and efforts to undermine the ACA’s no co-pay contraception rule (thankfully no co-pay birth control is still in place for now but its fate lies with the Supreme Court).
People already struggling to make ends meet now have another barrier to the care they need to achieve their reproductive well-being, coronavirus. There are still many unknowns about this new deadly virus—but we know that social distancing both helps and is having a devastating impact on many people. Access to birth control, like many other necessities, can be much more difficult than it already is. What if you rely on public transportation to get to a clinic and it’s not safe to use public transportation? What if the providers that normally staff that clinic are either sick or must care for others and cannot be there to provide family planning care? What if you cannot secure child care in order to make your appointment? And with lost wages, what if you cannot afford your care or any of these related expenses?
Family planning clinics across the nation are still open and most people can call before coming in to make sure the care they need is available. Telemedicine can help too (check out information on deliver to your door services available in different communities) and if we are fortunate enough not to face barriers to birth control access ourselves, we can help others who do. Please join me and donate to BCBenefits, our Contraceptive Access Fund that helps people struggling with barriers to contraception to get the care they need. Urge your members of Congress to block the harmful gag rule and reverse its impacts. Finally, remember that we will get through this if we look after one another and the needs of our neighbors.Thu, 19 Mar 2020 09:27:33 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/family-planning-time-coronavirusWomen’s History Month: How Birth Control Has Helped Women Thrivehttps://powertodecide.org/news/womens-history-month-how-birth-control-has-helped-women-thrive
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate not just what women have accomplished, but the tools that have helped us get here. We are also approaching the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which Congress ratified on August 18, 1920. Suffrage laid the groundwork for women to expand their professional abilities, have access to higher education, fight for fairer wages, and expand their reproductive rights. It wasn’t until 1972, however, that the Supreme Court made birth control legal for all women, regardless of age or marital status, further helping women to smash glass ceilings in their personal and professional lives. To honor Women’s History Month, here are four ways birth control has helped women make history and live their best lives:
Birth control advanced women’s educational opportunities
Many factors influence a person’s ability to make their own decisions to prioritize education. But not having to worry about an unplanned pregnancy during formative years has been essential to many women’s ability to prioritize education! Birth control has helped women across the country stay in school and achieve educational milestones. Between 1970 and 2017, the percentage of women aged 25 and older with at least a high school diploma increased from 55% to 90%, and the percentage with at least a bachelor’s degree increased from 8% to 35%. When birth control became legally available for unmarried women, college enrollment increased and the dropout rate decreased as a result, with one study estimating, “over 250,000 women over age 30 were able to obtain bachelor’s degrees as a result of access to contraception.” Overall, birth control has been crucial for women who want to finish their education before becoming parents.
Birth control helped women conquer the workplace
Beyond the classroom, access to birth control has opened many professional doors for women. 84% of adults agree that having the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child contributes to educational and economic opportunities for teens and women. Contraception can help people time when they become parents and enable them to complete their education and improve employment and financial prospects for themselves and their families. Birth control has contributed significantly to women’s ability to pursue careers in medicine, dentistry, and law, accounting for an estimated 30% of the increase in the number of women in skilled careers between 1970 to 1990. Women now earn half of all doctorate, medical, and law degrees. Not only has contraception helped women enter the workforce, but it has also helped them climb the corporate ladder. Before 1972, there were no female CEOs. Today, more than 30 women head Fortune 500 companies.
Birth control allowed women to make and save more money
Birth control has helped give women financial independence. Accessing birth control by age 20 reduces the likelihood that a woman will live in poverty and actually improves her expectations for her own life. Studies indicate that the availability of birth control contributed to 30% of the wage gains made by women between the 1960s and 1990s, with two-thirds of that coming from having greater workplace experience and the rest coming from access to education and the decision to enter higher-earning, traditionally male-dominated fields. In 2015, 42% of mothers were sole or primary breadwinners, bringing in at least half of the earnings for their families.
Birth control has also created space for women as business owners. In fact, “women-owned firms are the fastest growing segment of new business in the US and research shows a correlation between more women on corporate boards and higher profits.” Continuing to make family planning decisions based on your own timeline also helps women thrive; 65% of African American female and 64% of Latina small business owners say access to birth control and the freedom to decide if and when to have children have impacted their bottom lines as business owners.
Birth control set women up for healthy families
Birth control has helped women plan their families on their own terms and their own timelines. Allowing women to start families when they’re actually ready also benefits their children’s futures. Women who have an unplanned pregnancy are twice as likely to lack prenatal care. And a child born as the result of an unplanned pregnancy is at greater risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Babies who are born early or too small also have a greater chance of dying in their first year of life and suffering short- or long-term health consequences. Research also suggests that the educational attainment and long-term economic security of the next generation would improve if their mothers’ timing for childbearing matched their intentions.
We’re thankful that birth control has helped women everywhere make history and thrive on their own terms. Birth control is responsible for so much of the economic and personal progress that women have made over the last fifty years. But while we’ve seen declines in unplanned pregnancy in recent years, the disparities persist. The unplanned pregnancy rate remains higher for African American and Latina women, and rates of unplanned pregnancy among women with low incomes are five times higher than their more affluent peers. While the 1972 Supreme Court case paved the way to success for wealthy white women, there is still much to be done to close the gap in contraceptive access for all women.
Birth control is basic health care, and everyone deserves access. But more than 19 million women in the US live in a contraceptive desert— a county without reasonable access to the full range of birth control methods. Donate $50 to our Contraceptive Access Fund today in honor of Women’s History Month and help someone get a year’s worth of the birth control they need and want.Mon, 16 Mar 2020 09:31:52 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/womens-history-month-how-birth-control-has-helped-women-thriveMarch 2020 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2020-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
Staci Tanouye, MD, FACOG
North Florida ObGyn
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
My social media presence has been dedicated to providing women with the most accurate evidence-based health information possible including contraception information and resources. Through TikTok, I give safe sex and women’s health facts and then expand into more detail on Instagram. By making these messages more accessible to younger generations, I have been able to educate millions with high-quality myth busting health information.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
Women’s health first piqued my interest in medical school. While I loved all of medicine, I found myself drawn to learning more and more about obstetrics and gynecology. I actually wanted to study it. I slowly realized how unfamiliar women are with their own bodies and how empowering it could be to learn about ourselves. My mission became to empower women through learning and respecting their bodies.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Speak up. Don’t wait to be invited, take your seat at the table and own it. Our voices matter and we deserve it. There will always be people who want to silence us or convince us that controlling women’s bodies is the right and moral thing to do. But we must remember that freedom in women’s health is the only moral choice we have.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Because being able to control our reproductive choices gives us the power and freedom to control our entire future. It allows us to reach our goals and achieve our wildest dreams. Reproductive choice makes our future limitless.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
I have received thousands of comments and messages thanking me for providing accurate health information that young women were not getting elsewhere. The most rewarding are women thanking me for helping them to realize they had options they never knew existed before. This is very powerful for them and their futures. I never realized the reach of social media as an educational influence until now.Tue, 10 Mar 2020 10:29:54 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2020-power-playerWhy We Stood Up for Abortion Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-we-stood-for-abortion-access
Last week the Supreme Court heard a case about a Louisiana law that would dramatically hinder access to abortion care. If upheld, the law being challenged before the Court would result in the closing of all but one abortion clinic in Louisiana.
On March 4, we joined dozens of our coalition partner organizations to raise awareness around this critical case by rallying outside the Supreme Court. #MyRightMyDecision brought together a diverse group of people all with a common goal: to speak up for access to the full range of reproductive health services and to protect our power to decide.
We spoke up for a future where access to abortion is protected, because income and zip code should not determine if a person’s ability to access abortion. We spoke up for a future where everyone has the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
We spoke up to protect against unnecessary burdens and bans on reproductive health care. Because abortion is health care.Thu, 05 Mar 2020 12:47:38 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-we-stood-for-abortion-accessHow to Know When You’re Ready to Become Sexually Activehttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-know-when-youre-ready-become-sexually-active
Sex is everywhere. Pop stars sing about it, magazines write about it, movies sell it. But where does that leave teens? We know what it is, we may have learned a thing or two in school, but how do we know when we’re ready to take the next step with a partner? The truth is, it’s different for everybody. Some people feel comfortable with their first partner, and some want to hold off until later: both options are perfectly fine. What’s most important is that whenever you do decide to have sex, everyone involved is excited about it and really wants to do it. Your first sexual experience shouldn’t be the result of any peer or outside pressure. And trust is key. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re deciding if you’re ready to have sex with a partner:
Reflect on it
Take some time away from social media or friends and think about how you feel about sex and sexual activity. Don’t let anyone else influence your decisions. Questions you could consider: Why do you want to have sex? Is it because it’s something you want to do or are you feeling pressured by someone? Do you want to be in a relationship with the person you’re having sex with? Or keep it casual? If you’re currently in a relationship, how will you feel if you break up after having sex? Thinking things through without any distractions can allow you to think more clearly and possibly come to a decision, so as silly as it may sound, take some time for yourself and just think. Even a basic pro and con list can help you process everything you’re pondering.
If you have a partner, let them know how you’re feeling and be honest. If they make you feel uncomfortable or try to shame you in any way, that’s a telltale sign they’re probably not the right person to partake in any sexual activities with (whether it’s your first or thousandth time). Your partner should support you and be able to voice their own thoughts and feelings in a respectful manner as well.
Don’t Stress
If you decide to take things further, don’t stress. Nerves are normal, but remember that you’re in control of the situation and if you want to stop at any moment, you have the right to do so, no matter how “far” you’ve already gone. And if you don’t choose to have sex right now, there’s no need to stress about that either. Wait until you feel more comfortable, whether it’s with the same partner or perhaps someone different. Don’t let anyone force you to do something you don’t want to.
Get on Birth Control (If you’re not already)
Before you start becoming sexual with a partner, talk to your health care provider or a trusted adult about getting on birth control. Don’t let embarrassment stop you from talking about sex or birth control—protecting yourself is way too important. If you choose not to talk to a parent or guardian, you have the right to talk to your provider alone and ask about the information they are required to disclose to your legal guardians. If you want to do a little research on your own, here’s a birth control method explorer here.
Everyone’s journey with sex is unique and perfectly valid. At the end of the day, what you do with your body is up to YOU. Have open conversations with your partner(s) and stay true to yourself. The power is in YOUR hands.
Anna Labarca is a senior at Walt Whitman High School in Maryland. She writes for the student newspaper, The Black and White. She plans to study journalism in college and is interning at Power to Decide to learn more about the role communications has in campaigns.Tue, 03 Mar 2020 11:24:03 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-know-when-youre-ready-become-sexually-activeFebruary 2020: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2020-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are five stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
“Power of Mom:” A Mixed Methods Investigation of Mothers’ Influence on Women’s Contraceptive Attitudes and Behaviors
Though previous research has established that mothers influence their daughters’ attitude towards and decisions around birth control, reasons for this influence are less understood. This study examined prescription history and conducted in-depth interviews with mothers and found that a mother’s use of birth control pills, the birth control shot, or a long-acting reversable contraceptives (LARCs) led to a higher likelihood that their daughters would use such a method as well.
Dual-Method Contraception Among Adolescents and Young People: Are Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Users Different?
This study examined whether there is a difference in condom use as a method of dual protection between LARC users and short-acting reversable contraception users. Findings suggest there are significant differences and that relationship factors and risk of sexually transmitted infections played more of an influencing role in the decision.
Universal Access to Contraception: Women, Families, and Communities Benefit
This Call to Action statement, published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in February 2020, describe attempts by the Trump administration to reduce access to contraception through challenges to the Affordable Care Act and changes to Title X funding. The authors advocate for universal access to contraception for all individuals, covered by both public and private insurance. They examine many of the risks that can be associated with unwanted pregnancy, including short interpregnancy interval, prematurity, and obesity, and the long-term, public-health effects of these risks.
Abortion
The Economic Consequences of Being Denied an Abortion
Using a decade of previously collected financial data, this study assessed the economic consequences of being denied an abortion due to gestational age. It found that for those denied an abortion there is a “large and persistent increase in financial distress” that lasts for six years after the denial.
Pregnancy and Birth
One Key Question® and the Desire to Avoid Pregnancy Scale: A Comparison of Two Approaches to Asking About Pregnancy Preferences
This study compared Power to Decide’s One Key Question® to the Desire to Avoid Pregnancy (DAP) scale to assess how the answers to each are related to patient-reported reproductive health behaviors. It found that while both effectively identify those who wish to avoid pregnancy, One Key Question® offers providers more usable information to have further discussion with patients and fully understand their feelings.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Young Women's Reproductive Health Conversations: Roles of Maternal Figures and Clinical Practices
This study found that both young people and health care providers benefit when parents leave the exam room to allow for candid, private conversation. Young people reported that being alone with a provider allowed them to feel more comfortable to ask questions and providers reported that being alone with a patient enhances confidentiality.
Fri, 28 Feb 2020 10:57:10 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2020-power-updates-editionStanding Up for Abortion Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/standing-for-abortion-access
We believe in a future where all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. And we work every day to protect access to the full range of reproductive health services, including abortion. But right now, access to abortion – and the power to decide our futures – is at stake.
Next week, the Supreme Court is hearing a case about a Louisiana law that would dramatically hinder access to abortion care—leaving the state with one abortion clinic and setting a precedent for other states. The law being challenged before the Court would require abortion providers to have admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of where they provide abortions. The result would be the closing of all but one clinic in Louisiana.
Abortion restrictions like Louisiana’s clinic shutdown law have one purpose: to take away our ability to access abortion care.
On Wednesday, March 4, we’re joining dozens of our coalition partner organizations to raise awareness around this critical case by rallying outside the Supreme Court. We invite you to join us at the #MyRightMyDecision rally to speak up for access to full range of reproductive health services and to protect our power to decide.
If you can’t join us on March 4, but still want to make sure your voice is heard then head to myrightmydecision.org to learn how you can help spread the word. Everyone deserves access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services, including abortion, so that they can live life on their own terms. Join us as we fight for health care.Thu, 27 Feb 2020 10:12:47 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/standing-for-abortion-accessHow Can You Find Trusted Resources on Sex, Love, and Relationships?https://powertodecide.org/news/how-can-you-find-trusted-resources-sex-love-and-relationships
Don’t let the idea of talking to the young people in your life about sex, love, and relationships make your knees buckle or your stomach churn. You don’t need to cover it all in one go and there’s no rule that says you have to have all of the answers. Conversations about these important topics should happen over time and should become a dialogue where you’re both learning new things. However, it’s important to know that you can trust the information you’re finding online. Here are four tips on how to find trusted resources.
Look at the Source
After typing your question into Google, you click the first link in the results. Just because something shows up at the top of that page doesn’t mean it’s the most reliable source though.
An easy way to learn a lot about a website is to check the domain. The domain is essentially the address of a website, but it can also tell you who owns the website. Does the URL end in “.gov,” “.org,” or “.edu?” If so, it’s likely a trusted resource sponsored by a federal or state agency, a professional organization that provides education-focused content, or an educational institution such as a university.
Unlike for-profit sites (that will end in “.com”) that exist to make money, these websites are usually not out to sell you anything, which means their information is generally considered unbiased and therefore more reliable.
Look at the Author
For many questions about birth control, medical conditions, and sex, it is important that you find medically accurate information. When looking for answers on these topics it's a good idea to prioritize content authored by a licensed medical professional or health care provider. These people will likely have an "MD," "RN," "or PhD" after their last name in the byline. They have the insight, expertise, and authority to speak accurately on the topic of medicine.
Some personal blogs or other sites, such as magazines or newspapers, may end in “.com,” but host articles authored by people with personal experience on the topic they’re writing about. If you’re looking for stories to share or learn from these authors may be a better resource for you than medical professionals. This is especially true if you and your young person are talking about relationships.
If you cannot find any information on the page that reveals who wrote the article you're reading, you can consider it a sign to stay skeptical of its content.
Look at the Publication Date
So, you’ve looked at the URL and it checks out. You’ve taken a gander at the author and they check out too. Are you done? Have you found a trusted resource? Not quite yet. It’s important to also look at the article’s publication date before deciding that you’ve got a trusted resource.
Medical science changes all the time and researchers make new discoveries regularly. Many magazines, newspapers, and medical journals cover advancements as they happen. So, when you enter the words “birth control,” into your search bar you’ll likely turn up results both new and old. And old articles might contain outdated information or data.
Before spending too much time reading anything, take a look at the article's date of publication or posting. This will usually appear at the top of the post, near the author's name, but it can also be found at the very bottom of the page. Generally speaking, the newer the article, the more likely it is up to date and safe to consult. The NIH explains, “Older information isn’t useless, but using the most current, evidence-based information is best.”
Don’t be Afraid to Look at New Media
Finally, don’t feel like you have to stick to medical texts, peer-reviewed journal articles, or dry lists of facts. Social media sites such as Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube can have trusted resources too. Though you’ll likely want to do more research on the authors on these platforms to ensure they’re reliable, using social media may help you better connect with your young person as they’re probably already familiar with the platforms.
A few accounts to start looking at include: Mama Doctor Jones (run by an OB-GYN and mother of four), The Period Doctor (run by an OB-GYN), Six Minute Sex Ed (run by a sex education teacher), and The Minority Sex Report (run by two sex education teachers).Mon, 24 Feb 2020 10:25:58 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-can-you-find-trusted-resources-sex-love-and-relationshipsGinny Ehrlich on Reproductive Rights and Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/ginny-ehrlich-reproductive-rights-and-access
Editor's Note: This interview was originally featured on Philanthropy Women as part of their Feminist Giving IRL series.
What do you wish you had known when you started out in your profession?
When I started my career, I really wish I had truly understood the breadth of possibilities available to me. Early on, I had a limited view of what I could achieve professionally. But I have been extremely fortunate to have exceeded even my wildest professional dreams. So, what I have learned is that with grit and vision, anything is possible.
What is your current greatest professional challenge?
My greatest professional challenge is ensuring that every woman, no matter who she is or where she lives, has the same access to the information, services and agency to achieve what she needs to in order to live her best life. Such access has benefited my life in countless ways.
What inspires you most about your work?
My life’s work is to ensure that all people have equitable access to what they need to live their best life stories. This equitable access hinges on many educational and health factors, including getting pregnant and having children on one’s own terms and timelines. Consequently, the work we do at Power to Decide, which helps to make this possible for everyone, drives and inspires me every day.
How does your gender identity inform your work?
As someone who identifies as she/her/hers, I have experienced the joys and challenges of womanhood professionally and personally. Though I was not privileged as a child, I am undoubtedly privileged now. I am so grateful for my life and I want everyone to share the same opportunities. I work tirelessly to support all women who are peers, colleagues and team members to succeed. It is why I am so passionate about BCBenefits, a contraceptive access fund to help women with the costs associated with getting contraception. The fund is critical in ensuring that women struggling to make ends meet can get pregnant if and when they want to.
How can philanthropy support gender equity?
There are countless ways that the philanthropic community can support gender equity. My top recommendations are that they support programs, policies and systems that ensure that women can decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. That capacity is foundational for ensuring that women can achieve their educational and career aspirations. These investments are instrumental in effecting change and positive outcomes for all women across the country.
In the next 10 years, where do you see gender equity movements taking us?
The current political environment leaves us in a challenging time. That said, we have pulled together and mobilized to act. I am hopeful that Times Up and other movements will, in the short-run, hold the line on progress made and, in the long-run, advance us even further.
More on Ginny Ehrlich:
Ginny Ehrlich is the CEO of the nonprofit Power to Decide, “the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy.” She previously directed the childhood obesity prevention portfolio at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Ehrlich also worked at the Clinton Foundation, where she served as the Founding CEO of the Clinton Health Matters Initiative, and she was a long-time CEO of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Ehrlich started her career in the classroom as a health and sexuality educator, and has held several state and national leadership positions.
Ehrlich was recognized in 2012 by Health Leaders as one of the nation’s top change agents in the health sector. She lives in Washington, D.C., and she is an avid tennis player and runner.Fri, 21 Feb 2020 12:41:12 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/ginny-ehrlich-reproductive-rights-and-accessCelebrating National Condom Weekhttps://powertodecide.org/news/celebrating-national-condom-week
From February 14-21 we celebrate National Condom Week; the perfect reason to talk to those around you about the importance of using condoms to prevent both STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Because only internal or external condoms protect from both. When used correctly, condoms are 98% effective.
Available everywhere from bathroom vending machines to drug stores, from health centers to the internet, and next to the register at the convenience store down the street, condoms are a bright spot of accessibly in the world of birth control. And, in addition to being easy to find, on average they cost only $1 to $2 per condom. Many health centers even provide them for free!
Using condoms allows people to take responsibility for their own protection. Yet, when we partnered with Cosmopolitan last year, we learned that even as sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates increase, 60% of those surveyed said that they rarely or never use condoms. They said they didn’t use condoms because they weren’t worried about STIs, their partner didn’t insist that they used one, or because they hate throwing them away.
What can you do to help young people increase their condom usage?
If you’re a provider, talk to your young patients about how to properly use a condom and the importance of protecting themselves from STIs. In our survey we also learned that 88% of survey respondents never protect themselves during oral sex. So, don’t forget to talk to them about dental dams or condoms that may be more palatable.
If you’re a champion to a young person, a parent, older sibling, mentor, or teacher for example, talk to them! Champions play an important role in helping to ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Talking openly about sexual activity so that your young person knows how best to protect themselves is incredibly important. It might feel awkward at first, but using the resources from our Talking Is Power campaign you can start to have open and honest conversations about sex, love, and relationships to prepare the person you champion for the decisions they’ll make in the future.Thu, 20 Feb 2020 10:45:36 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/celebrating-national-condom-weekDying to Give Birthhttps://powertodecide.org/news/dying-give-birth
Since the CDC began tracking maternal mortality data in 1986, the rate of maternal mortality has only increased across the country. Currently, compared to white women, black women are more than three times as likely to die from a pregnancy-related death, which the CDC defines as “the death of a woman during pregnancy or within one year of the end of pregnancy from a pregnancy complication…” Between 2011-2014, white women experienced 12.4 deaths per 100,000 live births while black women experienced 40 deaths.
As with any statistic though, there are real faces and real stories behind the numbers. Stories like those of Kira Johnson are becoming too familiar.
Texas state Representative, Shawn Thierry nearly died from complications related to her epidural. Shalon Irving, an epidemiologist with the CDC, died at home a few days after giving birth. Tennis star Serena Williams could have died from a blood clot while still in the hospital after giving birth. These are only four of many, many stories black women of all walks of life have experienced. And unless you, a family member, or friend go through it, you likely haven’t heard stories beyond one of these before. Most never receive media attention.
While a variety of factors (such as access to accurate information and services, the money to pay for the highest quality of care, and a rise in chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity) play a role in contributing to rising maternal mortality, the impact of structural racism cannot be ignored.
The myth that black people have thicker skin and feel less pain than whites goes back as far as the 18th century. Disturbingly, a 2016 study found that around half of white medical students held “at least one false belief about biological differences between black and white patients, a trend that affected both their perception of the patient’s pain and the accuracy of their treatment recommendations.”
Black women often are not seen and understood or in control while they give birth. In fact, they often lack both autonomy and/or a system of support through the preconception, prenatal, birth, and post-natal care. At minimum that period spans the 40 weeks of the average pregnancy and one year of post-natal care. However, it can stretch far longer depending on how long the preconception period lasts.
Last year, Dara Mathis wrote about her experiences with racial bias in postpartum care for Bedsider. After having an emergency C-section, while still medicated and in recovery, a nurse “pulled open the privacy curtain…” and demanded, “So what are you going to do about birth control?” Mathis can’t remember how she replied, but the experience, “cast a pall of uncertainty over the remainder of my hospitalization. I began to distrust the rest of the staff, and I walked away from their care without obtaining any method of birth control at all.” She still wonders if, “[the nurse] demand[ed] I consider contraception so soon after childbirth because I was black?”
To make pregnancy, birth, and postpartum life safer for black women in America, we must acknowledge and address a number of factors. Health care and service providers first engaging in meaningful conversations with women to understand their reproductive well-being desires. More research and data must be collected to improve our understanding of black women’s circumstances and the challenges they face. We must also better understand and respect their reproductive health goals in order to better address unmet needs. And finally, increased public awareness around the black maternal health crisis can help others especially those outside the black community confront institutional barriers that contribute to this public health issue.
Wed, 19 Feb 2020 10:36:08 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/dying-give-birthCatching Up with the ME. Projecthttps://powertodecide.org/news/catching-me-project
Now in its fifth year, and with funding from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Population Affairs, Innovation Next is a unique accelerator program aimed at redefining adolescent sexual health through a focus on technology-enabled ideas to ensure that young people have the information and access to services they need. Fourth Cohort team, ME. Project (formerly My Mind Matters) discusses their work so far and what they hope the future holds.
How did you first hear about Innovation Next and how did you form your team?
I first heard about Innovation Next through a flyer sent to me by a friend of friend. We were thrilled about the prospect and formed our team based on expertise. The original team consisted of Chris (a youth engagement director), Mackenzie (a communications specialist), and Hope (training director). It has since morphed into an almost entirely different team. Justin (a youth engagement director), Alexis (a psychology major by training and a youth engagement specialist), and Hope (a training director/executive director) are now at the helm of the project.
What was your team's original idea for Innovation Next?
The original project was a Choose Your Own Adventure Game that addressed mental, sexual, and reproductive health (M+SRH). We are glad the youth had a better idea in mind. The one consistent piece across time was our emphasis on rural youth in Mississippi and focusing on the topics of M+SRH!
Did your idea change once you began the Innovation Next design process?
Yes, completely! After talking to young people, we realized they simply wanted representation and to see real Mississippi youth and experiences they encounter daily. They needed resources, but more than just receiving the resources, they needed to see young people engaging with the resources. They wanted storytelling, animations, real-world applicability, and of course, to see their lives and their struggles problem-solved in a way that could fit their context.
What does your project look like now?
The project has changed so much as we have iterated on our ideas. In fact, it even looks different than what we planned two months ago. Our goal is to remain relevant. Today, the project still addresses M+SRH for rural youth in Mississippi using several social media platforms. Our goal is to provide resources and the real-life stories of youth in ways that help youth problem-solve issues within their daily lives. We use Bitmojis that represent actual rural youth in Mississippi, bright colors to appeal to our demographic, culturally relevant content and language, video "takeovers" of places where youth congregate, and storytelling and illustrations to ensure youth get access to vetted, high-quality M+SRH resources.
How did Innovation Next cause you to think outside of the box?
Innovation Next gave us permission and room to try and fail repeatedly! Through our failures, we were ultimately able to gain success. It helped us give voices to rural youth and repackage sensitive information in ways that are culturally relevant and easily digestible. The topics of M+SRH are particularly taboo within the state of Mississippi and the South overall. Because of Innovation Next, we were able to create a dual presence that emphasizes a social media strategy as well as an on-the-ground strategy to bring high-quality, vetted resources to even the most remote communities.
Furthermore, because of Innovation Next, we were able to bring M+SRH information to the forefront by creating conversations in public spaces in innovative ways (e.g., discussions at the state fair), mixing difficult discussions with humor (lots of humor!), and making youth not only beneficiaries of the project but also content creators and designers. Approaches in Mississippi to M+SRH are minimal (at best) and costly (far worse). Therefore, Innovation Next helped us make these resources and assets accessible to youth in rural spaces in Mississippi.
What is your biggest takeaway from Innovation Next?
Our biggest take away from Innovation Next is the ability to take risks in our work. That privilege isn't always afforded to nonprofits or new professionals. Similarly, we at Teen Health Mississippi have simply become enamored with the design process. Because of our time spent with IDEO and the staff of Power to Decide, we have changed the way we approach our work with youth across the state of Mississippi!
What future goals do you all have for this program?
We have so many goals! First and foremost, sustainability is our ultimate goal. Secondly and similarly, we would love to replicate the ME. Project in other states. We hope to offer technical assistance to organizations, cities, and nations interested in creating ME.-like programming within their communities. Furthermore, we hope to expand our work to include a training guide for adults to support teens around the topics of M+SRH.Tue, 18 Feb 2020 10:31:09 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/catching-me-projectIt’s Election Season – How to Make Sure Your Voice is Heardhttps://powertodecide.org/news/its-election-season-how-make-sure-your-voice-heard
It’s early February and depending on where you live (hello, Iowa and New Hampshire) or how much of a political junkie you are, you might either feel like the 2020 election season has been going on forever or is just beginning for real. Either way, this is no time to tune out – there’s so much at stake when it comes to the information, access, and opportunity that ensure everyone has the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
For sure, there’s the question of who is elected President. But there are also very important races for about one-third of the US Senate, and all US House seats. In addition, there are key elections for Governors and members of state legislatures. As my colleague Tara Mancini wrote recently, state policy matters a lot. All of these policymakers have a big impact on key issues related to high-quality sex education, access to birth control, insurance coverage of birth control, and access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services, including abortion. What’s more, there are the big issues of health care coverage and affordability more broadly, which are getting quite a bit of attention.
What can you do to make sure your voice is heard?
Make sure you’re registered to vote. Even if you think you are, it’s smart to double check. And if you’re not yet registered, you can take care of that here.
Know key dates and voting information in your state. Here are resources for registration deadlines (go to info about your state), dates of primaries (many of which are coming up soon), dates for early voting and deadlines for absentee ballots, and information about where you vote.
Get smart about the contraception policy and access landscape in your state.
Remind candidates that birth control is not controversial; au contraire, it is widely popular.
Ask candidates questions at town halls, through social media, and if they show up at your door or in your community. Below are a few questions you could ask, along with some supporting information. And make sure to check back at our Get Involved page in the coming weeks for more information.
Key Questions for Candidates
What is your plan to make affordable, quality contraception available to all women, regardless of income or where they live?
Nearly 20 million US women with low incomes live in contraceptive deserts—counties in which there is not reasonable access to a health center offering the full range of contraceptive methods. Of those 20 million women, roughly 1.6 million women live in counties without a single health center that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. These access barriers put women already struggling to make ends meet at risk of not being able to get the birth control method right for them. These women might face additional transportation costs, childcare costs, or unpaid time off work because of the long distances they need to travel to access care. Check out our interactive maps for your state.
What would you do to reverse the harmful impact of the “domestic gag rule” and ensure that the Title X Family Planning Program is able to continue to provide quality, affordable services to low-income women, including access to the full range of contraceptive methods?
For nearly 50 years, the Title X Family Planning Program has provided federal funding to health centers that provide free or low-cost birth control and related services. The Trump Administration has undermined the ability of Title X health centers to provide quality care by enforcing the “domestic gag rule.” The gag rule forces health centers that receive Title X funds to withhold information from patients about abortion services and care. To date, approximately 8.8 million women in need live in counties that have lost Title X support for reproductive health care access. The loss of funds is likely to result in increased costs, shorter hours, and fewer services being offered by impacted centers. For women living paycheck to paycheck, losing affordable access to the birth control they need because the health center they depend on has lost its Title X funding compromises their reproductive health and well-being.
What would you do to support national standards for high-quality, culturally competent sex education? What would you do to continue evidence-based programs such as the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program and the Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP) so young people have accurate, reliable, and research-based sexual health information?
The funding and quality of sex education programs varies significantly based on where you live, and such inconsistency leads to a lack of information or misinformation that fails to meet the needs of many young people. All young people deserve quality, fact-based sex education and the data show that those who have access to high-quality sex education have fewer unplanned pregnancies, are better able to finish school, increase their earning potential, and have the power to plan their futures and achieve their dreams. The teen birth rate in the United States has steeply declined since the 1990s – decreasing 72% since 1991 before falling an even steeper 58% between 2007 and 2018. Even with dramatic progress among teens across the board, there are persistent disparities by race/ethnicity and geography. High-quality, evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs also enjoy broad public approval: 85% of adults favor maintaining federal funding for the TPP Program and PREP. This support cuts across political, racial, ethnic, and geographic lines.
What steps would you take to ensure that women’s access to abortion is preserved, no matter where they live?
Women need quality information about contraception and access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services, so they have the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Abortion is a part of the full spectrum of reproductive health services. Access to abortion is being increasingly threatened, especially for low-income women, despite public support. A majority (54%) of Americans believe that abortion should be legal in all (23%) or most (31%) cases, while four in 10 (40%) believe that abortion should be illegal in most (25%) or all (15%) cases. There is no state in which more than one-quarter of residents say abortion should be illegal in all cases.
Armed with this information, we encourage you to get involved, spread the word, and make sure your voice is heard. Wed, 12 Feb 2020 11:36:11 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/its-election-season-how-make-sure-your-voice-heardFebruary 2020 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2020-power-player
Michael R. (Bob) MacDonald, MS, CHES
Retired, Manager, Sexual Health and Responsibility Program, Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
The Sexual Health and Responsibility Program of the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, established in 1999, has worked to become a focal and trusted source of sexual health promotion products, consultative services, training, and a forum for multi-disciplinary and cross­organizational collaboration to establish military sexual health indicator data streams, normalize integrated and comprehensive sexual health messages, enable efficiencies, promote program and policy uniformity, and enable continuous improvement. The ultimate goal is a cultural norm in which physical and social sexual health are encouraged, supported, and expected; and a population in which all pregnancies are planned, and sexual violence, coercion, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, are prevented.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I started as a public health guy in the Air Force in 1976 and have been doing this with the Navy since 1999. Sexual health – the prevention of STIs, HIV, and unplanned pregnancy – has been a large part that work. My passion for the work is based on the responsibility each of each of us in military medicine to honor Mr. and Mrs. America who, when they send us their sons and daughters, expect that we will take only the very best care of them.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Learn the facts – squash the myths. In our country, even in 2019, there is much misinformation about family planning, contraception, and abortion.
Accept that values matter. Accept that each of us has the right to hold our values. With every person, respect their values, share the facts, and empower each person to make a well-informed decision within their own value system.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
The right, the need, and the responsibility for every person to control their own fertility strikes me as obvious from a public health perspective, but also on a personal level. The social consequences are wide, deep, and well understood. Within the military, an unintended pregnancy is also a workplace issue, because women are undeployable when pregnant and because may be stationed in places around the world (and even in some places in our country) where safe and legal access to abortion services are very challenging. Clearly, to achieve successful family planning outcomes, each person requires knowledge, skills, motivation, and resources. Each of us – as partner, parent, teacher, legislator, mentor, health care provider, and public health promoter – can contribute in some way.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
I am very pleased that the Defense Health Agency published (in 2018) a policy regarding access to contraception services in all military medical settings, which assures comprehensive and high-quality access to family planning services. This policy establishes uniformity and clarity that has been much needed in our very large and complex military healthcare system.Tue, 11 Feb 2020 09:00:00 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2020-power-player3 Ways to Show Some Lovehttps://powertodecide.org/news/3-ways-show-some-love
Last year, we partnered with Cosmopolitan and learned that even as sexually transmitted infection (STI) rates increase, 60% of those surveyed said that they rarely or never use condoms. From February 14-21 we celebrate National Condom Week, the perfect reason to talk to those around you about the importance of condoms and other methods of birth control to prevent both STIs and unplanned pregnancies.
Encourage Those You Love to Evaluate their Birth Control
The kind of birth control a person uses can impact their life in a lot of ways. But finding a method isn’t a one-time decision. As our lives change, the method of birth control that works best for us will change as well. Encourage those you love to evaluate their current birth control to ensure it’s still the best fit for them. Make sure to use evidence-based resources like Bedsider’s birth control explorer and clinic finder to answer your questions or concerns.
And don’t forget about condoms! Some people prefer condoms over other methods because they’re easily accessible, relatively cheap, don’t require a prescription, and the only form of birth control that helps prevent against unplanned pregnancy and STIs if used correctly.
Talk to A Young Person in Your Life
Young people need champions - people in their lives who they can talk honestly to about sex, love, and relationships. People who can answer their questions and influence their decisions positively. Champions play an important role in helping to ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. So, in addition to talking to loved ones like friends and partners, we encourage everyone with young people in their lives to talk early and talk often.
While you’re talking about sex and contraception, also talk to your young people about consent. There are always age-appropriate ways to discuss consent with young adults. In order to live life on their own terms and have healthy relationships, young people need to understand how to give and receive consent.
Talking to your young person both early and often is a powerful and impactful way to ensure they have the power to advocate for their needs and wants in the future. To learn more, visit our Talking Is Power campaign, which is filled with resources that can help you.
Share the Love
Once you’ve talked to someone you love, consider sharing the love. More than 19.5 million women in the US live in a contraceptive desert— counties without reasonable access to the full range of birth control methods. Donate $50 today and help someone get a year’s worth of the birth control they need and want.Thu, 06 Feb 2020 15:31:38 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/3-ways-show-some-loveImplementing One Key Question in Hawaiihttps://powertodecide.org/news/implementing-one-key-question-hawaii
Power to Decide’s One Key Question® has an audacious goal: nothing short of transforming women’s health care. One Key Question® is a tool for health and social service providers that helps start a conversation about if and when women want to get pregnant and have a child. Across Hawaii the Department of Health (DOH) and a non-profit, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition (HMHB), have implemented One Key Question®.
Kari Wheeling, a midwife, doula, and Clinical Services Director at HMHB and Wendy Nihoa, Supervisor, Women’s and Reproductive Health Section at DOH, spoke about the program's growth and success in a recent interview.
What services do you provide to your clients, generally?
Kari: HMHB is a small non-profit whose mission is to improve the system of care for pregnant and parenting women of Hawaii. HMHB offers programs such as Cribs for Kids, Piko Pals, and Baby and Me Tobacco Free.
Wendy: The section I head is the Women’s and Reproductive Health Section (WRHS) of the Maternal and Child Health Branch, Family Health Services Division, Hawaii Department of Health. The WRHS is comprised of three units: Perinatal Support Services, Family Planning, and Adolescent Health. We do not provide direct services, rather we contract with Community Health Centers (most of which are Federally Qualified Health Centers, or FQHCs), Clinics on University Campuses, and other non-profits to provide perinatal and family planning services; and teen pregnancy prevention programs via evidence-based curriculum in the classroom settings.
Where are you implementing One Key Question®?
Kari: HMHB received a grant from the Hawaii Chapter March of Dimes to conduct One Key Question® trainings statewide. We partnered with various community clinics and perinatal provider services to conduct the trainings. The providers trained work in various settings such as home visiting, FQHCs, and public health.
Wendy: Via providers we contract with, One Key Question® is implemented in community health centers, FQHCs, clinics on university campuses. Family Planning staff have also provided training for the DOH Home Visiting Program.
Describe the patient/client population you serve with One Key Question®.
Kari: HMHB does not provide direct services with One Key Question®.
Wendy: We do not provide direct services however, in general, our programs focus on providing access to the uninsured, underinsured, and at-risk populations (homeless, immigrants, persons with limited English proficiency, mental health, etc.).
How are you measuring success?
Kari: HMHB conducted a needs assessment that was submitted to the State Maternal Child Health Branch that gave the state a baseline of where Hawaii currently stands with One Key Question®.
Wendy: Based on the needs assessment MCHB-WRHS and the Pre/Inter-Conception Workgroup is considering developing a plan that will include how to measure successes.
What has been your biggest success?
Wendy: Providers continued to sustain One Key Question® with little assistance from the state; in partnership with HMHB completing the One Key Question® assessment and development of an One Key Question® trainer registry.
What advice would you give others who want to implement One Key Question®?
Kari: HMHB has not implemented, however, I would recommend getting input from the people trained by One Key Question® to get a better understanding of how One Key Question® is being implemented. The assessment that was conducted by HMHB does begin to touch on implementation issues such as high turnover or training administrative staff who are not in a position of providing direct services. I would say that partnership is key and the importance of having the training available on a routine basis due to high turnover. Even though HMHB does not provide direct services with One Key Question®, we were part of the training collaborative that helped to implement statewide.
Wendy: Ditto Kari’s response. My one gem of advice is to identify ONE agency/organization to coordinate and document One Key Question® efforts – in light of staff turnover; changes, etc.
Mon, 03 Feb 2020 10:29:38 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/implementing-one-key-question-hawaiiJanuary 2020: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/january-2020-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are seven stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Emergency Contraception
The teen birth rate in the United State remains significantly higher than other resource rich nations. This policy statement by the Committee on Adolescence from the American Academy of Pediatrics aims to educate providers on emergency contraception and encourage routine counseling and advance emergency contraceptive method prescription as a public health strategy to reduce teen pregnancy.
Health Insurance Coverage and Contraceptive Use at The State Level: Findings From the 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Though the authors state that “variations in contraceptive use across the states likely reflects broader demographic, social and structural differences…” findings suggest that women with health insurance had higher levels of contraceptive use compared to those without insurance.
Abortion
Gestational Age Bans: Harmful at Any Stage of Pregnancy
This article covers state actions related to gestational age bans. Gestational age bans were enacted in nine states in 2019, ranging from a total ban on abortion in Alabama to bans at 18 weeks in Arkansas and Utah. The author states, “using gestational age as a legal cutoff for abortion care is harmful at any point in pregnancy.”
Economic Insecurity, Mental Health, and Substance Use Among Pregnant Women Who Consider – But Do Not Have – Abortions
This study found that women who experienced economic insecurity and mental health disorders or substance use were more likely to consider abortion. These same women were also more likely to report encountering policy-related barriers to obtaining an abortion. Interviewees said that all of these factors together contributed to their decision not to have an abortion, however restrictive policies had more of an impact than other facts on their decision.
Pregnancy and Birth
Impacts of Medicaid Expansion on Health Among Women of Reproductive Age
This study sought to understand the association between Medicaid expansion and increased access to and use of preconception and interconception care. Results suggest expanded Medicaid coverage may improve health care coverage and utilization for women of reproductive age.
Physician Perspectives on Routine Pregnancy Intention Screening and Counseling in Primary Care
This study surveyed 443 primary care physicians in New York and found that 88% supported routinely including a reproductive health needs assessment (such as a pregnancy intention screening like One Key Question®) into primary care.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Short-term impacts of Pulse, a Teen Pregnancy Prevention App
Though the overall rate of teen pregnancy in the United States has decreased, black and Latinx young people still experiences disproportionately high rates of teen pregnancy. This paper addresses the short-term effectiveness of an app called Pulse, which was created to address the sexual and reproductive health needs of black and Latinx young people age 18-20. Key findings include: app users were more knowledgeable about contraceptives, were more confident that they would use birth control in the future, and were less likely to have reported having had sex without using a birth control method.
Fri, 31 Jan 2020 10:40:57 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/january-2020-power-updates-editionHow to Support Birth Control When You’re Under 18 https://powertodecide.org/news/how-support-birth-control-when-youre-under-18
As teens, we often feel as though we’re powerless or have no tangible value in today’s current political landscape without the ability to vote. We read the headlines, we see the news notifications on our phones, yet we can’t really influence any issue that matters to us. Or so you would think.
#ThxBirthControl is a movement dedicated to spreading awareness about birth control and talking about all its amazing benefits. Birth control doesn’t need to be a taboo subject: it can actually help create more educational and economic opportunities for many, as well as more stable families. In fact, 76% of adults—including 93% of black and 67% of Latino respondents—view contraception as a basic part of women’s health care. As a teen, having open conversations about birth control can help us to feel like there’s another level of trust with an adult. And these talks can ensure that when we do make the decision to have sex, we know we don’t have to worry about getting pregnant.
Here are a couple of ways you can show your support:
Take to Social Media
You have a voice: use it. Tweet, post, do whatever you can to spread the word about #ThxBirthControl. It might surprise you just how many people are listening to what you’re saying. The more you know, the better. Feel free to interact with your online community and allow others to ask you questions, while learning more yourself.
Things you can post:
Content: https://powertodecide.org/thxbirthcontrol
Images: https://giphy.com/bedsider
Other content relating to birth control that has made a positive impact in your life or could in someone else’s, such as your own birth control story or news articles about contraception.
WRITE!
To your representatives in Congress
If there’s a law being passed involving birth control that you either believe in or don’t support, shoot your representative an email telling them what change you want made. For example, many Title-X funded clinics served roughly 4 million people in 2018—the Trump administration’s “domestic gag rule” is putting those millions at risk. If you wish to show your support but don’t know where to start, click here to use a draft message we’ve come up with and find out who your representatives and senators are!
To us!
By sharing your story with Power to Decide, you’re adding your voice in support of expanding access to birth control to everyone across the nation. The more people that share, the harder it is to ignore. Everyone should have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child, and to pursue the future they want, on their own terms. Click here to inspire others.
What’s important to remember is to always keep advocating, no matter your age. Birth control is a right, not a privilege, and everyone should have easy access to it. #ThxBirthControl Day is every year on November 13, but don’t wait to show your support. Be loud and be proud. We want everyone to love their birth control so much they shout, “Thanks, Birth Control!”
Anna Labarca is a senior at Walt Whitman High School in Maryland. She writes for the student newspaper, The Black and White. She plans to study journalism in college and is interning at Power to Decide to learn more about the role communications has in campaigns.Mon, 27 Jan 2020 10:36:49 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-support-birth-control-when-youre-under-18What’s on the horizon for state legislatures in 2020?https://powertodecide.org/news/whats-horizon-for-state-legislatures-2020
By the end of January, more than half of state legislatures will have kicked off their sessions. For the past few years Power to Decide has tracked state policies that increase information about and access to contraception—and we’ll continue to do so in 2020. The policies generally fit into the following categories:
Insurance coverage for an extended supply of contraception.
Policies that codify or go beyond the Affordable Care Act (ACA)’s contraceptive coverage.
Authorizing pharmacists to prescribe self-administered contraception.
Expanding access to information for college students.
Miscellaneous policies to increase access to birth control that don’t fit neatly into one of the above buckets. An example is providing funds to stock clinics with methods that have a higher up-front cost and implementing a consumer education campaign.
Since 2013, states have passed at least 59 pro-active policies that fall into one of the above categories, as shown in the graph below.
These aren’t just the usual suspects; across the nation, a diverse group of states have passed legislation or policies to expand information about or access to birth control.
While the trend to expand information about and access to contraception began before efforts from the Trump Administration to weaken federal protections for birth control coverage—most notably, the no co-pay birth control benefit afforded by the ACA—the uncertainty of this provision and the law itself has surely motivated more states to act over the last few years.
Most recently, the Trump Administration’s Title X domestic gag rule caused at least 900 clinics around the country to exit the program and therefore lose federal funding from Title X. This prompted a handful of states to use their own funds as a stopgap measure for some of those clinics. It’s likely we could see more states doing the same this year.
We’ll probably also see more states move bills that allow consumers to receive coverage for an extended supply of contraceptives at one time, as well as bills that allow pharmacists to prescribe self-administered contraceptives. If fact, bills introduced in New Jersey and West Virginia would require insurers to provide coverage for a 12-month supply of contraceptives at one time, and bills in Iowa, New Jersey, Vermont and Wisconsin would allow pharmacists to prescribe contraceptives.
Given troubling federal policy developments, the role of states is more important than ever. While states shouldn’t be expected to make up for the damage or gaps caused by federal policy when it comes to contraception, they do have opportunities to ameliorate some of the damage and to take proactive steps that increase access and options available to their residents. Doing so will ensure more people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
You can stay up to date on this and more by signing up to receive our monthly state policy newsletter, Beyond the Beltway Bulletin, here. And don’t forget to stop by our state policy portal for more resources.Wed, 22 Jan 2020 13:38:16 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/whats-horizon-for-state-legislatures-2020Chemistry over Contraceptives—How School Sex Ed Fails Studentshttps://powertodecide.org/news/chemistry-over-contraceptives-how-school-sex-ed-fails-students
When you were in high school, you probably took a lab science course at some point. If yours was anything like mine, the teacher nagged you about safety equipment every time the beakers and Bunsen burners came out. Yet, it would be utterly ridiculous if instead of showing you how to use your gloves and goggles, the teacher told you to steer clear of the lab altogether because staying out is the only 100% effective way to prevent an accident. It’s hard to even imagine that happening, so why is it that in most states, that’s exactly the approach schools take when it comes to sex ed?
Even though we’re now two decades into the twenty-first century and research has proven medically accurate sex education to be one of the keys to reducing STI transmission, teen pregnancy, and unprotected sex, not nearly enough of the states require it. In fact, only 20 states see contraception as an important enough part of sex ed to require teaching it, while 29 states require educators to stress abstinence as the most effective form of birth control.
While I was fortunate enough to grow up in a school district that took sex education seriously, not all my friends had the same luck. Once, after a few friends and I watched an episode of Sex Education (Check out our list of other great conversation-starting shows here), one of my friends mentioned that they’d been taught how to use a spectrophotometer in high school, but the first time they saw anyone put a condom onto anything was in her college freshman dorm room during move-in week. Tragically, she’s far from an outlier.
Across the country, less than a quarter of students are required to learn how to properly use a condom, far less than must learn lab safety practices to graduate. Even worse, millions of teens are being actively taught to abstain from sex without being shown how to have sex safely if they chose to. Only 24 states (less than half!) require that non-abstinence-only sex education be taught, and of those, only 10 require that sex ed be medically accurate.
Compare the 17% of high school students who were taught all of the CDC-recommended sex ed topics to the 70% of graduating high school students who took a chemistry class. Clearly, our education system cares more about teaching kids science procedures most people won’t ever use after graduating than giving us the information we need to have a healthy sex life. If those in power really want to give young people the tools we need to succeed, they need to do more to make sure that teens nationwide are given the medically accurate, inclusive sex education that young people need. They need to prevent stories like my friend’s. It’s time we teach young people how to safely spend time with someone they have chemistry with just as much dedication as we put into teaching them regular chemistry.
To read more about what can be done to improve sex education where you live, check out this post about ensuring inclusivity in sex ed, or this post about teaching consent and sex ed.
Silvio Renna is a student at American University, double-majoring in Politics and Public Health. He’s been passionate about making good health the standard since middle school and is eager to apply what he’s learned in his studies to be a part of making health equitable, affordable, and accessible. Renna interned with the Policy Department at Power to Decide in the Fall of 2019.
Wed, 15 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/chemistry-over-contraceptives-how-school-sex-ed-fails-studentsJanuary 2020 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/january-2020-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Michelle Y. Owens, MD, MS
Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director, Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellowship, University of Mississippi Medical Center
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
I have worked on the national level through ACOG’s Executive Board and more specifically, the Committee on Adolescent Health which focuses not only on contraceptive education and access, but the entire spectrum of healthcare for young adults and teens. Locally, I have worked with community and civic organizations to promote the dissemination of evidence-based, medically-accurate information regarding contraception and general women’s health on a variety of platforms.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I was drawn to Obstetrics and Gynecology because of the unique opportunity to care for women over the course of their lifespans. My driving force is my belief that all women should be treated with dignity and respect, and that they have the right to determine what is in the best interest of themselves and their families.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
I would advise them to be fearless and resilient. There is a lot of misinformation regarding women’s health issues, and it can be frustrating when incorrect information is used to influence patient care and health policy. Unfortunately, our field is also among the most highly politicized, and can be a source of emotionally-charged debate. I believe that it is important that we continue to provide medically accurate information to our patients and the general public to ensure every woman receives the best care.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
The decision of where and when to have children is fundamental in the overall health and welfare of women and their families. This decision impacts not only the short term and long-term health of the mother, but can also affect educational attainment, financial success, and economic stability of her family. Contraceptive information and access are fundamental to women’s health and are also a matter of social justice.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
In addition to this partnership, I Co-Chair the Advisory Board for Converge, a non-profit organization based in Mississippi aimed at reducing barriers to all methods of contraception as part of an overall focus on improving access to high quality, affordable family planning care that is patient centered, and available to all persons.Tue, 14 Jan 2020 10:00:00 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/january-2020-power-playerOur January 2020 Top TV Premieres: Hooray for Hollywood!https://powertodecide.org/news/our-january-2020-top-tv-premieres-hooray-for-hollywood
It’s 2020: a new year, a new crop of TV shows to watch, and renewed energy—led by Michelle Williams’ impassioned Golden Globes speech—for candid, honest talk from Hollywood and beyond about why all people should have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Her full speech is a must-watch, but I particularly loved how she knitted together the personal, professional, and universal message that getting pregnant on your own terms and timeline truly gives you the power to decide your future:
“I’ve tried my very best to live a life of my own making, and not just a series of events that happened to me, but one that I could stand back and look at and recognize my handwriting all over—sometimes messy and scrawling, sometimes careful and precise, but one that I had carved with my own hand. And I wouldn’t have been able to do this without employing a woman’s right to choose: to choose when to have my children, and with whom.”
Through personal stories, scripted stories, and everything in between, Hollywood has helped drive historic declines in teen and unplanned pregnancy over the past two decades. How? By dispelling myths and normalizing birth control use; showing honest depictions of power dynamics in relationships; and modeling helpful conversations between young people and their parents, peers, partners, mentors, and champions—for starters. Some 70% of young people say they have learned something useful about sex, love, or relationships from popular media such as TV shows or movies; and nearly half of teen girls say they’ve learned something useful about these topics just from the social media feed of a TV show they follow.
In January alone, five of our favorite TV series (and media partners!) are returning with more smart, thought-provoking stories about sex, love, relationships, and the power to decide. Check out the lineup below and encourage the young people in your life to tune in and talk through how they might handle the situations depicted in these shows.
Find out why critics and audiences are raving about these shows, and why we’re so proud to support them. Join @PowertoDecide as we live tweet with @GoodTrouble, @Grownish and @TheBoldTypeTV and @FreeformTV all month long.
Happy new year, and happy bingeing!
Good Trouble: Season 2 Returns January 15 10/9c @FreeformTV. Emily Nussbaum, TV critic for the New Yorker, listed it as one of her top 10 shows of 2019 and praised it as, “A warmhearted, woke-headed ensemble soap.” In this addictive spin-off of The Fosters, Callie and Mariana face challenges and find meaning in life, love, career, and adulthood in LA.
Sex Education: Season 2 arrives January 17 @Netflix. One of Forbes’ top 20 most anticipated shows in 2020, this informative, explicit, and funny coming-of-age story reveals that the desire for connection and relationships are at the heart of the many sexual dilemmas that teenage Otis and his mom each deal with in their respective sex therapy practices.
Grownish: Season 3 Premieres January 16 8/7c @FreeformTV. Check out this sneak preview of the hit spin-off of ABC’s “black-ish.” College student Zoey Johnson balances friendships, relationships, academics, and figuring out who she is and wants to be.
Shrill: Season 2 arrives January 24 on @Hulu. We love the warm, funny, and sometimes heartbreaking honesty that Aidy Bryant brings to her role as Annie. Based on Lindy West’s brilliant book of the same name, season one drew praise for frank portrayals of emergency contraception, abortion, sex, and relationships as Annie examines her life, work, and starts to find her incredible journalistic voice.
The Bold Type: Season 4 Premieres January 23 9/8c @FreeformTV. Check out the new trailer and follow Jane, Sutton, and Adena as they face work without their mentor Jacqueline, infidelity, new relationships, and new life stages. Inspired by life at Cosmopolitan magazine, NPR praised the show for its “fresh take” on “career advancement, sexuality, race, women's health and the #MeToo movement.”Wed, 08 Jan 2020 10:16:19 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/our-january-2020-top-tv-premieres-hooray-for-hollywoodOur Top Ninehttps://powertodecide.org/news/our-top-nine
We’d like to express our thanks for all that you’ve done this year to advance and support young people’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. As 2019 ends, let’s look back at nine blogs from the year.
More Than “Filling a Void”
This blog showcases a collation’s work to significantly reduce inequitable reproductive health outcomes that disproportionately impact youth in foster care, such as high rates of unintended pregnancy and STIs, obstruction of access to care, and lack of sexual health education.
59 Years of The Pill
The FDA Advisory Committee voted to approve the first birth control pill 59 years ago. Our CEO, Ginny Ehrlich, wrote this article celebrating the pill for its contributions to women’s economic and educational mobility.
These High Schoolers Say, “Talking is Power”
What do four teens have to say about their experiences with sex education? They told us about the need for more comprehensive sex ed and the importance of having a parent or champion in their life to answer questions about sex and contraception without judgment.
Improving Access to and Demand for Birth Control in Kentucky
All Access EKY uses first-person storytelling to reduce taboos and increase education around contraception. They’re working to decrease birth control misconceptions, raise awareness by working with systems and providers, and increase regional funding to support access.
Is Your Sex Ed for All?
This blog shows 5 ways you can tell if the answer is yes. Because we support sex ed that recognizes young people’s right to bodily autonomy and accurate sexual health information.
Dr. Ruth Westheimer says #TalkingIsPower
After the premier of Hulu documentary on her life, “Ask Dr. Ruth,” we held a screening and Q&A with the world-renowned sex therapist. She noted young people’s natural curiosity and encouraged the crowd to leave sex ed information around the house to help foster that curiosity: “If they are reluctant to ask questions, leave a book and they will read it.”
Why People Still Say “Yes!” to Using Condoms
Many people still prefer condoms as their go-to method of birth control. One of those people shared five reasons why they prefer condoms over other methods of birth control.
Improving Health Disparities for Native American Indian and Alaska Native Populations
Native communities are regularly overlooked and underrepresented within health care. Increased access and more reliable data will help Native populations reduce reproductive health disparities.
A Teen’s Guide to Birth Control
Written by a teen for teens, this guide gives an idea of some of the options that teens can consider as they think about using birth control for the first time.
We look forward to working with all of you in 2020. We will be ready, with you, to continue our efforts to build systems of support to help all young people to achieve the futures they want and deserve. Mon, 06 Jan 2020 14:35:01 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/our-top-nineDecember 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/december-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are seven stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Associations Between Perceived Susceptibility to Pregnancy and Contraceptive Use in a National Sample of Women Veterans
The risk of an unintended pregnancy increases if people choose not to use birth control. However, not much is known about the relationship between a persona’s perceived susceptibility to pregnancy and their contraceptive use. This study looked at that relationship in a group of veterans and found that those who believed they were not susceptible to pregnancy were less likely to have used contraception at last sex compared to those who believed they were highly susceptible.
Pregnancy Preferences and Contraceptive Use among US Women
This study used a new measure, the Desire to Avoid Pregnancy scale, to quantify the relationship between people’s pregnancy preferences and their contraceptive use. Findings show those with strong preferences against pregnancy used more effective methods, whereas those without strong preferences against pregnancy do not use contraception. Overall pregnancy preferences were associated with consistent use of contraception.
The Affordable Care Act Contraception Mandate & Unintended Pregnancy in Women of Reproductive Age
Looking at data collected before the ACA’s contraceptive mandate (2008-2010) and data collected post-mandate (2013-2015), this study found a decrease in unintended pregnancy. Though this decrease could be due to chance, the authors postulate that increased access and affordability to all methods of birth control contributed to the decline.
Abortion
Abortion Surveillance — United States, 2016
This report analyzes data on all legal abortions obtained in the United States in 2016. Among other findings it details that 623,471 abortions were performed, women age 20-29 accounted for the majority of abortions, and that 59% of those who had an abortion had had one or more previous live births.
Pregnancy and Birth
Primary Care Providers' Responses to Pregnancy Intention Screening Challenges: Community-Based Participatory Research at an Urban Community Health Centre
The study explored the perceived challenges faced by primary care providers when implementing pregnancy intention screening into routine care. It concluded that sharing best practices with providers on implementation and waiting room tools would help to increase pregnancy intention screening rates in the primary care setting.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Provision of and Barriers to Integrating Reproductive and Sexual Health Services for Reproductive-age Women in Opioid Treatment Programs
This paper details the results of a survey sent to all opioid treatment programs in the state of North Carolina to assess the feasibility of integrating reproductive and sexual health services for their reproductive-age women patients. The results show 84% of respondents believe female patients could benefit from receiving these services even though only half of the programs currently provide contraception or education on safe sex and STI prevention.
Talking About Teen Talk: Young People’s Experiences in a Sexuality Education Program
Teen Talk is a clinic-based sexuality education program that provides medically accurate information about all methods of birth control, including abstinence. Researchers found that the method by which a young person found their way to Teen Talk influenced their overall perception of the program. While individual’s experiences and perception of the program’s impact varied from positive to negative. Overall, the program was regarded positively and “as a site of ‘actual learning’.”Tue, 31 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/december-2019-power-updates-editionDECEMBER 2019 POWER PLAYER https://powertodecide.org/news/december-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Lynette Leighton, MD
Medical Director of Women’s Health, OLE Health
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
Since 2012, I have worked as a Family Medicine physician at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), where we serve over 36,000 patients in Napa Valley. I later also became the Medical Director of Women’s Health. Most of our patients get obstetrical and gynecologic care through a local Catholic hospital or affiliated doctors. Unfortunately, the Catholic hospital places systemic restrictions on women’s health, including discussions about birth control and abortion, and refuses desired tubal ligations, even during C-sections. In some of the public high schools in Napa, sexual education is prohibited, and if it is offered, it’s through outside trainers or physical education instructors on an occasional basis. My mission from day one has been to educate our staff and community providers about the reproductive health needs of our community and develop systems that help increase access to these services. My hope is to inspire others to break down barriers that have been created which prevent women from planning families.
Specifically, my work has included improving access to tubal ligations at non-Catholic facilities; holding workshops for providers, staff, and community groups in Values Clarification and contraception; training providers how to insert IUDs and Nexplanons and on the importance of timely help with accessing contraception. We have also initiated One Key Question® at our clinic, so that every person of reproductive age gets the chance to discuss their family planning needs, starting at age 12, at any visit. In the community, I’ve initiated task forces to facilitate better collaboration better between clinics, foster care, and high schools. Also, I’ve been the on-site physician, providing the full range contraceptive services at a community center for at risk youth, which is my favorite day of work each month.
Outside of my community, I’ve also continued my advocacy work by speaking to California senate about funding for One Key Question® or writing letters to the editor. Recently I’ve become a national trainer for One Key Question®.
Such work is not always successful. Two years ago, after creating a workflow to offer medication abortions in our community clinic, I was told I had to stop this initiative. Many FQHC’s received letters threatening to defund them for offering abortions, so several clinics stopped offering them. There is a possible merger pending between our Catholic hospital and local non-affiliated hospitals, which could result in completely removing access to tubal ligations and decreasing access to contraception in our county. I’ve attended hearings and written letters to the Attorney General to resist this merger, but we fear it will go through.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
From an early age I was aware of the inequalities between genders, and I didn't agree with them. Boys’ athletic teams always got better equipment, uniforms, and playing times. In my own home, my mom made more money, but my dad still made all the decisions. Growing up, I had very few people to talk to about this and I was often told: “Don’t be so sensitive.” It dismayed me that other people did not have the same concern, that women were considered less important. I spoke up loudly and often. However, on the subject of abortion, I took it for granted. Abortion and contraception have been made legal federally, and I thought that was the end of the story. In medical school I learned differently, and through the group Medical Students for Choice, I learned a great deal more about abortion and contraception and that the future threats to our access to both, threaten woman’s autonomy. How is it that mostly male politicians determine what women can do with their bodies? After my family practice residency, I also completed a residency in family planning and learned to teach and advocate for both.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Dare to speak up in your health care center with a positive and consistent message. Honestly, evaluate the barriers you and your system create. Ask what could you do better to help patients get the care they need, including reproductive health care. Collaborate with likeminded folks in and out of your community. This will help you be more effective and will help you feel less lonely in this work.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
It is a basic human right for any person to decide whether or not she wants to be pregnant, and to prevent or end a pregnancy if she doesn’t want to be pregnant. When women are not given the option of choosing to make a family on their terms, their life goals, physical health, and mental health often suffer. We have the ability in medical care to provide choice safely, and it is our obligation to do so.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
Yes! In August of this year I joined Remote Access Medical (RAM) and Power to Decide to help provide contraception in rural Kentucky. RAM did not have the ability to pre-order Nexplanons as they had hoped, so I crowdsourced and raised the necessary funds from friends and family. None of those who contributed are particularly wealthy yet given the current climate regarding abortion in rural America everyone wanted to help, and they generously gave $4,000 in just one night! We provided long acting reversible contraception to several women. One young mom burst out crying when we told her we had a free Nexplanon for her. Two of her children were unplanned, the most recent is six months old. She said she was tired and broke and lived in fear of getting pregnant again. She had heard about the Nexplanon, found a local place that could place one, but they told her it would cost $500, which she couldn’t afford. We were able to provide a free Nexplanon, which provides her five years of less worry. She was blown away that folks from California and New York cared enough to make this happen and that I flew so far to help. It was an incredibly rewarding weekend.
Wed, 18 Dec 2019 09:00:00 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/december-2019-power-playerHow Are We Helping More Women Say “Thanks, Birth Control!”?https://powertodecide.org/news/how-are-we-helping-more-women-say-thanks-birth-control
The more we talk about contraception, the more we hope to remove the controversy around it and acknowledge how much it makes possible for individuals, couples, and families everywhere. So every year we choose one day to show the world why birth control matters. And this year, you showed up.
But shouting about birth control once a year isn’t enough when nearly 20 million low-income women across the country don’t have reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods. To get contraception these women must do more than show up to an appointment. They must find childcare, take unpaid time off work, or travel long distances.
To fill these gaps and reduce barriers, we created BCBenefits, our contraceptive access fund. Based around the belief that all women deserve access to the birth control method of their choice, BCBenefits helps low income women overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers in access to contraception.
Since launching nationally in April 2019, BCBenefits has helped more than 2,000 people receive a year’s worth of birth control for free. And 98% of those who have used BCBenefits say they would recommend it to a friend. Other things we’ve heard from users include, "Access is difficult in my state and this was easy peasy," and “"It was incredibly easy and exactly what I needed!”
So, after you thank your birth control method, consider making a donation to BCBenefits so that another woman can love her method like you do yours. Just $50 provides a woman with a full year’s supply of birth control. And spread the word: the more people who know about BCBenefits–both women in need of assistance and people like you interested in helping them–the more we can create change.
Tue, 17 Dec 2019 09:57:27 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-are-we-helping-more-women-say-thanks-birth-controlA Teen’s Guide to Birth Control https://powertodecide.org/news/teens-guide-birth-control
Choosing the birth control method that’s right for you can oftentimes be a bit confusing. There are many different factors to consider, such as what methods will cause irregular bleeding patterns, which will protect against STIs, and how accessible they are to you. According to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average number of methods a person uses over their lifetime is three. But fear not, for choosing your method does not have to be as complicated as it seems. It is important to note that while this guide will give you a better idea of your options, there are tons of different types of birth control that exist: if you're interested in exploring some more, click here.
Before we dive in, it’s important to remember why birth control is so useful. Obviously, it protects against unwanted pregnancies and some methods can prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but birth control has other less talked about advantages. For starters, some methods of birth control can reduce cramping during periods and improve acne. So, even if you aren’t at risk for pregnancy right now, birth control is worth investing your time and consideration.
The Implant and IUDs
The implant, brand name Nexplanon, is popular among young people as it doesn’t require much thought once placed. It’s placed by a health care provider, like a doctor or a nurse practitioner, and stays in your upper arm preventing pregnancy for up to five years. The biggest downside to using the implant is that it can cause irregular bleeding. That means that some people might have no bleeding while others have bleeding that comes and goes or even happens every day. So, if someone like a parent is tracking your periods, this method might not be super private. The implant additionally does not protect against STIs.
The IUD is another method to consider if you’re looking for something easy to use. An IUD is placed inside the uterus by a health care provider and changes with the way sperm move so they don’t fertilize the egg. IUDs can last from three to twelve years depending on the type you get and come in both hormonal and non-hormonal options. The hormonal IUD can cause some irregular bleeding, but overall people with this type of IUD have less bleeding and cramping with their periods. The non-hormonal IUD doesn’t change when you get your period, but it might cause you to have more cramps and a heavier period. IUDs do not protect against STIs.
The pricing for both the implant and IUD may be too much for anyone who does not have insurance or wishes to not use a close family member's insurance for privacy reasons. On the other hand, once placed, no one has to know that you are using the implant or an IUD, but someone could feel the implant in your arm and a partner could feel the IUD strings in your vagina.
The Pill
The pill is one of the most popular methods of birth control out there and is a solid option for anyone that prefers a shorter-term method. It’s not the most private method, as regular visits to the pharmacy and taking pills every day are required for it to successfully prevent pregnancy. The pill prevents pregnancy by affecting the hormones in your body to prevent you from releasing an egg. It requires responsibility, with the taker having to take it every single day no matter what. So, think about your schedule and if you can truly commit to a new habit. If you don’t think you can, it’s perfectly okay, people of all ages have trouble taking the pill consistently.
The pill does not protect against STIs and causes some bleeding between periods, but is free for almost everyone with insurance, and low cost without.
The Patch
The patch is a small sticker, like a Band-aid, that you change once a week, making it more low maintenance than the pill. It’s less private as it is in public eyesight, but similar to the pill, it doesn’t require you to insert anything into your body and works by preventing your ovaries from releasing an egg.
Another thing to consider is that the patch was only tested in people weighing less than 198 pounds. So, it may not be the best method for preventing pregnancy if you weigh more than that. The patch also does not protect against STIs and you may experience bleeding in between periods. However, it is low cost or free for anyone with insurance, and about $55 a month without.
Condoms
The condom is cheap and accessible. You can buy them almost anywhere and do not need to see a provider for a prescription. They have the added benefit of protecting you from both pregnancy and STIs, making them a good choice for many teens when they become sexually active. What you may not know is that condoms can vary in sizes and colors, some have lube while others don’t, and some even come with another method of birth control—spermicide.
Internal condoms (which are placed inside the vagina like a tampon and can be put in up to eight hours before sex) are additionally another option you have at your disposal. Internal condoms also protect against both unplanned pregnancy and STIs. Internal condoms cost around $2 each if your insurance doesn't cover the cost. Some health centers may provide internal condoms for free.
Condoms are cheap and you can get them in most pharmacies, gas stations, and for free in most clinics without talking to a health care provider. No one other than your partner has to know that you are using them for birth control making them a fairly private method to use. You can use condoms with other forms of birth control at the same time (just not the internal condom) to be protected from STIs (like chlamydia or gonorrhea) and pregnancy. Condoms cause no physical side effects.
Emergency Contraception
If you ever need birth control after you’ve had sex, emergency contraception (EC) can seriously save you.
There are several types of EC. Let’s start with the non-hormonal copper IUD. It is the most effective method of emergency birth control there is, and if inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex, your chances of pregnancy will lower by 99.9%.
Another form of contraception after sex is a one-pill formula available by prescription, which blocks the hormones your body needs to conceive. Like the copper IUD, it works up to 5 days afterwards and unlike other EC pills, doesn’t decrease in effectiveness during that time.
Plan B One-Step and similar variations are a third type of EC and are available over the counter or online without a prescription. Plan B is comparable to normal birth control pills, except it contains a much higher dose of hormones. Plan B, like the other emergency contraception methods, can work up to five days after unprotected sex, but its effectiveness will decrease each day.
In the end, you have options. Use this locator to find where you can access emergency contraception near you.
No matter which method you ultimately decide on, it is always best to find what works for you. Talk to your provider and remain open to trying something new. The more you learn, the better. Keep exploring your options, do research of your own, and ask questions so you can find a method of birth control that works for you and your life. We want everyone to love their birth control so much they shout, “Thanks, birth control!”
Anna Labarca is a senior at Walt Whitman High School in Maryland. She writes for the student newspaper, The Black and White. She plans to study journalism in college and is interning at Power to Decide to learn more about the role communications has in campaigns.Thu, 12 Dec 2019 10:17:54 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/teens-guide-birth-controlContraceptive Deserts, Title X, and BCBenefitshttps://powertodecide.org/news/contraceptive-deserts-title-x-and-bcbenefits
Mary is 29 and lives in Georgia. When she wanted to find a birth control that reduced her near-debilitating cramps and extreme bleeding she had to wait more than three months for an appointment at her nearest health center.
Emily, age 34, from Missouri, doesn’t have a clinic that prescribes birth control in her county. She travels more than 50 miles whenever she needs a new prescription or wants to see a provider.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated or angered by the distance, the time, and the choices that people are forced to make when accessing birth control – you’re not alone. We believe no one should have to choose between a stable income and creating a family on their own terms. We believe that if you choose to take birth control – for whatever reason – you should have access to it within 60 minutes of wherever you live, regardless of your income.
But for the 19.5 million low-income women who live in contraceptive deserts, this is their reality. A contraceptive desert is a place where women lack “reasonable access” to a health center with the full range of birth control methods available. Sadly, at least one health center or provider for every 1,000 women in need qualifies as “reasonable access.” And we know that there are plenty of women in the US who don’t qualify for publicly funded contraception who also rely on these health centers. It’s likely that 19.5 million is a conservative estimate of those affected by contraceptive deserts.
Seeing a provider, accessing trusted information, and finding the right birth control becomes nearly impossible without access. To gain it those living in contraceptive deserts often face decisions such as,
“Do I take an unpaid day off work or do I skip the doctor?”
“Can I afford to pay a babysitter during my appointment?”
“Is getting birth control worth taking 4 buses and walking a mile?”
And the situation is getting worse.
In 2018 alone, the Title X family planning program served roughly four million people. But recent attacks on the program have undermined the ability of Title X family planning providers to offer the full range of contraceptive care. They are hampered by the “domestic gag rule,” a rule which requires health providers at sites that receive Title X funds to withhold information about abortion and bans them from referring for abortion. In response to the gag rule many Title X providers have been forced out of the program. To date, 30 states have lost all or some Title X resources.
Eliminating Title X health centers entirely would impact women across the country. The number of women living in counties with no clinic offering the full range of methods would nearly triple.
To bring contraceptive deserts back to life and to help address the damage the gag rule is doing to birth control access, BCBenefits, our contraceptive access fund, supports women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Administered via Bedsider, our digital, evidence-based birth control information and resource network, BCBenefits helps low income women overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers when trying to access birth control, such as transportation.
Since launching nationally in April 2018, BCBenefits has helped more than 2,000 people receive a year’s worth of birth control for free. Nearly all (98%) who have used BCBenefits say they would recommend it to a friend. Other users have told us, "It was a life saver when I needed it the most,” and “The process was a great experience."
We invite you to help reduce the barriers women face accessing the birth control method right for them by donating today. And spread the word: the more people who know about BCBenefits–both women in need of assistance and people like you interested in helping them–the more we can create change.Mon, 09 Dec 2019 11:05:54 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/contraceptive-deserts-title-x-and-bcbenefitsShare the Benefits of Birth Control with Othershttps://powertodecide.org/news/share-benefits-birth-control-others
Do you love the freedom that comes with using a birth control method that works for you?
Birth control is directly linked to a wide range of benefits to women, men, children, and society, including fewer unplanned pregnancies. Using birth control allows people to plan for a family on their own terms and gives them the power to decide their own destinies. And we know that the majority of adults—regardless of race/ethnicity, region, and political affiliation—believe that birth control should be considered a basic part of women’s health care.
Yet, nearly 20 million low-income women across the country don’t have reasonable access to the full range of birth control methods because they live in contraceptive deserts.
To fill these gaps and reduce barriers, we created BCBenefits. A contraceptive access fund, BCBenefits supports women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. The fund helps women with low incomes overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers in access to contraception.
We built BCBenefits around the belief that all women deserve access to contraception. A gift of $50 to BCBenefits provides a woman with a 12-month supply of birth control. If you believe as we do that all women deserve access to affordable health care, please donate so that another woman can love her method like you do yours.
Since launching nationally in April 2019, BCBenefits has helped more than 2,000 people receive a year’s worth of birth control for free. These people live in all 50 states and Washington, DC, and happy users have told us:
“Now I don’t have to worry about pricy doctor visits and paying for birth control pills of out-of-pocket. This is an amazing program for uninsured women with needs.”
“Offering to give me my birth control like this makes me want to cry for joy. Less of a thing I have to worry about…So that only when I'm ready I can have kids. A truly great service to us women.”
Do you want to ensure everyone can access the birth control that’s right for them?
We invite you to help reduce the barriers women face accessing their preferred birth control method by donating today. And spread the word: the more people like you who know about BCBenefits the more we can create change.Tue, 03 Dec 2019 10:09:30 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/share-benefits-birth-control-othersNovember 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/november-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are six stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Short-Term Impacts of Pulse: An App-Based Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program for Black and Latinx Women
Black and Latinx women age 18-20 have especially high rates of unplanned pregnancy and are less likely than their peers to receive information on pregnancy prevention in school. This study tested the effectiveness of a new app-based pregnancy prevention program created specifically for this population. It found that those who used the app reported that they felt more confident to use birth control every time they had sex.
Abortion
Crisis Pregnancy Centers in the United States: Lack of Adherence to Medical and Ethical Practice Standards; A Joint Position Statement of the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine and the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Crisis pregnancy centers often provide biased, limited information intended to persuade pregnant people from getting an abortion. In this paper the Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine and the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology lay out their support for six positions aimed at curbing unethical crisis pregnancy center practices.
Pregnancy and Birth
Rural-Urban Disparities in Pregnancy Intentions, Births, and Abortions Among US Adolescent and Young Women, 1995-2017
This paper examined disparities in planned pregnancy among women age 15-24 in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Using newly collected state health department data on rural and urban adolescent births and abortions, the authors were unable to draw solid conclusions and recommend future research explore access to family planning and abortion services in these areas.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
Integrating Reproductive Health Services into Opioid Treatment Facilities: A Missed Opportunity to Prevent Opioid-exposed Pregnancies and Improve the Health of Women Who Use Drugs
Many people with substance use disorders only receive medical care through opioid treatment programs. Currently many of these programs believe that providing reproductive health care is outside their scope of service. This paper lays out an argument against this line of thought.
Sex Ed for Self-Advocates
This guide provides information on sexuality and sex education for people on the autism spectrum age 15 and older. It uses written articles and short videos to teach concepts and then tests users’ understanding.
The Effects of the Dependent Coverage Provision on Young Women's Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services
This study examined whether ACA provision, allowing young adults age 26 and under to stay on their parents’ insurance, was associated with any changes in this population’s use of sexual and reproductive health services. It found that while the provision is associated with a significant decrease in uninsured young adults, there was no effect on utilization of services.Wed, 27 Nov 2019 09:51:32 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/november-2019-power-updates-editionImproving Health Disparities for Native American Indian and Alaska Native Populations https://powertodecide.org/news/improving-health-disparities-for-native-american-indian-and-alaska-native-populations
Unplanned pregnancy is declining for the first time in decades, however, health disparities continue to disproportionately affect many racial and ethnic groups, including Native American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs). More than 5 million Indigenous people live in the United States. Native communities are regularly overlooked and underrepresented within health care, leading to sociocultural, access-related, and other barriers to reproductive health and family planning.
Disparities in sexual and reproductive health are complex in nature. Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, inadequate access to health care, lack of education, and cultural influences directly impact how and why marginalized groups experience higher rates of disparity. In fact, the most recent CDC data from 2017 reports that the birth rate for AI/AN teens was higher than any other race or ethnicity. In order to address these challenges, we must first acknowledge the many factors contributing to poor health outcomes in Indigenous communities.
Access to timely and reliable data specifically focused on AI/AN populations in the areas of family planning, contraceptive use, and sexual violence/sexual experiences is crucial. This data informs evidence-based programmatic decision making and implementation. It also assists in the development of policies aimed at increasing reproductive health literacy, which reduces teen birth rates and unplanned pregnancy.
Currently, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) TPP Evidence Review offers a variety of programs and resources focusing on sexual education, youth development, abstinence education, and clinic-based programs for diverse populations. In addition to these prevention programs, young people need support from parents, allies, mentors, and other champions who play an important role in helping them make healthy choices about sex and birth control. Thu, 21 Nov 2019 09:38:52 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/improving-health-disparities-for-native-american-indian-and-alaska-native-populationsWhy I’m Thankful for Birth Controlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-im-thankful-for-birth-control
Now more than ever it’s important that we say, “Thanks, birth control!”
While the effort to politicize contraception has gained momentum, the reality is that according to a recent national poll, contraception is widely supported. Specifically, the majority of adults—regardless of race/ethnicity, region, and political affiliation—believe that birth control should be considered a basic part of women’s health care. And what’s more, nearly nine in 10 (86%) of respondents believe that everyone deserves access to the full range of birth control methods.
Do you love the freedom that comes with using a birth control method that works for you? What does having access to your preferred birth control method mean in your life? For me, access to birth control has allowed me to pursue meaningful work, travel, and complete my education.
Since almost all women have used birth control in their lifetimes, I am certain that you all have your reasons to be grateful for birth control. That is why I am asking you today to say #ThxBirthControl and to tell your story across all your favorite social media channels.
Singing from the rooftops about birth control has never been more important. While you know the many benefits of birth control and realize all that it has helped to make possible in your life, not everyone can say the same.
More than 19.5 million women eligible for publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts – or counties in which there is not reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods. To get contraception these women must do more than show up to an appointment. They must find childcare, take time off work, or travel long distances to access their preferred birth control method.
To fill these gaps and reduce barriers, we created BCBenefits, a contraceptive access fund. BCBenefits supports women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. The fund helps women with low incomes overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers in access to contraception, such as transportation.
So, after you thank your birth control method, consider making a donation to BCBenefits so that another woman can love her method like you do yours. Just $50 provides a woman with a full year’s supply of birth control. If you believe as we do that all women deserve access to basic health care, donate today.Wed, 13 Nov 2019 10:05:39 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-im-thankful-for-birth-control5 American Indian and Alaskan Natives Working to Improve Native Healthhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-american-indian-and-alaskan-natives-working-improve-native-health
November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. This annual celebration invites us to reflect on Indigenous cultures and traditions while acknowledging Native contributions to the arts, sciences, and beyond.
Native people face unique healthcare challenges that are often compounded by a lack of resources and access. For example, in 2017, the birth rate among American Indian/Alaska Native teens (32.9%) was higher than any other race/ethnicity in America. In the same time period, this population saw the smallest decline in the teen birth rate (6%). Native communities have many health disparities that require attention at both the individual and the societal level.
Here are three advocates and two organizations working to improve Native health.
National Indian Health Board
The National Indian Health Board advocates on behalf of all Tribal Governments and American Indians and Alaska Natives in their efforts to provide quality health care. Since 1972, the Board has sought to elevate awareness around Native health issues by working with federal and state agencies, Tribal organizations, and private foundations. Among many other projects they have worked to better understand how tribal organizations and state programs can serve the needs of Native mothers and children.
Representative Sharice Davids
Elected to the US House of Representatives in 2018, Sharice Davids represents the 3rd district of Kansas and is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin. While campaigning, Davids said, “As the daughter of a single mother Army veteran, I understand what reproductive freedom means when it comes to determining the course of your life, and why it is so important for everyone.” She went on to promise, “I will fight to ensure Kansas women and families have access to a full range of health care services they need, including reproductive health care.”
Representative Deb Haaland
Also elected to the US House of Representatives in 2018, Rep. Deb Haaland represents the 1st district of New Mexico and is an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna. She is a staunch supporter of women’s right to make reproductive decisions. Haaland says, “I support a woman's right to choose when and how to have a child, full access to contraception and believe that everyone should have access to affordable healthcare--which means we need to expand access to abortion care. Far too many rural women, poor women, and women of color simply do not have access to the healthcare they need to stay healthy.”
Katherine Gottlieb
Katherine Gottlieb is Sugpiaq and Filipino, a Tribal member of Old Harbor Village, Seldovia Village Tribe and an honorary tribal member of the Eklutna Tribe of Alaska. For 28 years, Gottlieb has served as the President/CEO of Southcentral Foundation, an Alaska Native-owned, non-profit health care organization. The Foundation serves around 65,000 Native people across the state of Alaska, providing primary and specialty care that addresses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.
Center for American Indian Health
An independent center within the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, we’ve featured this organization’s important work before, but it’s worth showcasing again. The Center works in partnership with more than 120 tribal communities in 17 states to “raise the health status, self-sufficiency, and health leadership of Native people to the highest possible level.” Their project Respecting the Circle of Life is a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health program culturally adapted for Native peoples. It is the only teen pregnancy prevention program proven to work in Native American communities.Wed, 06 Nov 2019 11:25:22 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-american-indian-and-alaskan-natives-working-improve-native-healthGetting Covered in 2020https://powertodecide.org/news/getting-covered-2020
UPDATE: The deadline for Open Enrollment has been extended until 3am on Wednesday, December 18!
The Affordable Care Act is still law, and HeathCare.gov is selling affordable, comprehensive coverage for 2020. Open Enrollment runs from November 1 and lasts through December 15. That’s only six weeks (unless you have a qualifying life event or you live in a state with its own marketplace) to find a plan or change to a plan that better fits your needs. And just like years past, financial assistance is still available. You could join the 4.5 million people in the US that qualified last year for a plan with no monthly premium.
We know that seems like a short time, but don’t worry. Here are the resources and reminders to help you get your plan in time.
Before You Shop
Before you can sign up for health insurance, you’ll need certain paperwork. Here’s a handy checklist of all the things you’ll require. Remember to cross items off the list as you track them down.
Also, before you even look at available plans make a list of what matters to you when getting health care. Do you want to stay with your current doctor? Do you travel frequently for work (or play!) and worry about needing coverage away from home? Understand your health needs first and then find a plan that fits.
Finally, some states have their own healthcare exchanges, and several have slightly longer enrollment periods. While HeathCare.gov will guide you to state specific marketplaces, we’ve listed them below, along with their enrollment periods, and their websites:
California: October 15, 2019 to January 31, 2020 (Covered California)
Colorado: November 1, 2019 to January 15, 2020 (Connect for Health Colorado)
Connecticut: November 1 to December 15, 2019 (Access Health CT)
District of Columbia: November 1, 2019 to January 31, 2020 (DC Health Link)
Idaho: November 1 to December 16, 2019 (Your Health Idaho)
Maryland: November 1 to December 15, 2019 (Maryland Health Connection)
Massachusetts: November 1, 2019 to January 23, 2020 (Massachusetts Health Connector)
Minnesota: November 1 to December 23, 2019 (MNSure)
Nevada: November 1 to December 15, 2019 (Nevada Health Link)
New York: November 1, 2019 to January 31, 2020 (New York State of Health)
Rhode Island: November 1 to December 31, 2019 (HealthSource RI)
Vermont: November 1 to December 15, 2019 (Vermont Health Connect)
Washington: November 1 to December 15, 2019 (Washington Healthplanfinder)
Ready, Set, Shop!
If you don’t have insurance start with o HealthCare.gov or CuidadodeSalud.gov and fill out an application. This ensures the plan you buy will be ACA compliant and not a short-term plan that could leave you with large medical bills. That means it provides comprehensive benefits, including preventive care, birth control, maternity care, and mental health care. What’s more, when shopping for a plan on HealthCare.gov you cannot be charged more based on your health status or gender, and you will never be asked about your medical history. These protections may not be there when buying a plan not through the marketplace so stick to healthcare.gov or your state marketplace listed above.
If you already have health insurance through the ACA, you should still make sure all your information is up to date. It’s also a good idea to browse available plans, as the plan you have this year may not be the best value available for you in 2020. It always pays to shop around.
The health insurance marketplace allows you to compare different plans to select the one that’s the best fit for you. You can sort plans by the cost of premiums, or by how much you might expect to pay in deductibles before coverage begins. While you look keep in mind the list you made of things that matter to you in health coverage. If you need foreign language help, have questions, or want help choosing a plan, use the Get Covered Connector to find appointments with local application assistors.
Know Your Benefits
Once you’ve found and purchased your plan take some time to familiarize yourself with the benefits it offers.
Plans sold through the health insurance marketplace must cover at least one option for each FDA-approved birth control method without copays or deductibles. These rules apply to all Marketplace plans, so your 2020 plan should cover your preferred birth control method. When you go to the pharmacy to pick up your pill pack or to your health care provider to have an IUD put in, the cost to you should be $0 (note: plans do not have to cover every single brand name).
Beyond birth control, the ACA ensures that many other women’s preventive health services are fully covered. There’s a long list of benefits, but they include well-woman visits; STI counseling, and a wide variety of prenatal screenings and tests.
Don’t Wait
Six weeks can go by quickly but enrolling at the last minute could increase your chances of experiencing technical difficulties as the website gets busy right before Open Enrollment ends, and the traffic can cause major technical glitches. Don’t wait and let the stress of finding insurance build up, whether you’re buying insurance for the first time or shopping around to see if there’s a better option for you, feel good about staying on top of your health.Mon, 04 Nov 2019 09:27:51 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/getting-covered-2020October 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/october-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are six stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
ACOG Updates Guidance on Over-the-Counter Access to Hormonal Contraception
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has broadened its recommendations on over-the-counter access to hormonal contraception. The new recommendation states that vaginal ring, patch, and Depo-Provera shot are safe and should be available over the counter with no age restrictions.
Contraception Access Increases Women’s Educational Attainment and Earnings
The Institute for Women’s Policy Research has released a new report which shows that contraceptive access increases women’s educational attainment, labor force participation, and earnings. In addition to other findings the report says, “Women with access to the pill saw their wages grow more rapidly in their 30s and 40s than women without access, resulting in substantially higher earnings. Having access to contraception by age 20 also reduced the probability that a woman lived in poverty later in life.”
Abortion
Effectiveness, Safety, And Acceptability of Self‐Assessment of the Outcome of First‐Trimester Medical Abortion: a systematic review and meta-analysis
This study compared two methods of assessment following medical abortion: self-assessment at home versus routine clinic follow up assessment. It found that the effectiveness, safety, and acceptability of at home assessments are not inferior to routine clinic follow up.
Pregnancy and Birth
Intimate Relationship Dynamics and Changing Desire for Pregnancy Among Young Women
Over the course of four years, this study conducted weekly assessments of nearly 900 women’s intimate relationships and pregnancy desire. It found that their desire changed depending on the context of their intimate relationships and that generally, desire increased with the time and seriousness of relationships.
"If You Don't Ask, I'm Not Going to Tell You:" Using Community-Based Participatory Research to Inform Pregnancy Intention Screening Processes for Black and Latina Women in Primary Care
The American Medical Association supports the use of pregnancy intention and contraception screening as part of routine well-care. But existing pregnancy intention screening tools may not address complexities for women of color or those of lower socioeconomic status. Confirming this, study authors recommend future work examining the experience and effectiveness of community-based participatory research for these populations and in primary care settings.
Declining Realisation of Reproductive Intentions with Age
This study asked, “What is the likelihood of having a child within 4 years for men and women with strong short-term reproductive intentions, and how is it affected by age?” It found that nearly two-thirds of men and women realized their fertility plans within four years. However, while men’s probability of realizing their plans did not decrease with age, women experienced a steep age-related decline around age 35.Thu, 31 Oct 2019 10:24:58 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/october-2019-power-updates-editionNovember 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/november-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. To celebrate Let’s Talk Month, check out this month's Power Player profile.
Robie H. Harris
Children’s Book Author—IT’S PERFECTLY NORMAL, Changing Bodies, Growing up, Sex, and Sexual Health and other books on sexual health for younger children
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
I hope that the words I write, the information and facts I include, and the art that is created for my books on sexual health can help kids of various ages make healthy decisions for themselves and their friends. Yet, that can only happen if the information and facts they receive are truthful, as up-to-date as possible, medically and scientifically accurate, and age-appropriate.
Many ask why I include so much information on contraception. My answer: “If you don’t know details about contraception, then how can you decide whether or when to become pregnant and have a baby or whether to wait to have a baby until you are old enough to take good care of a baby or what to do if you are not ready to be a parent?”
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I have been a writer my whole life. Add to that that my parents made sure that when I was growing up, they talked to me about what at the time was called “the facts of life”—a euphemism for “sexual health.” What first compelled me to write about this topic was a chance meeting I had with an editor, who asked me if I wanted to write a book for kids on AIDS. My answer, “Kids need to know about the virus, but kids also need information about a myriad of other sexual health topics in order to stay healthy.”
What also me compelled is my belief that kids of all ages, younger and older, have the right to have accurate facts and information about their bodies and sexual health. They need this information, and many seek it out. My hope is that my books can and do help provide that information.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Talk with kids and teens and ask: “What do you want to know about sexuality? What do you think you need to know?”
Then ask, “What do you think I need to know to write books about sexuality that would be helpful to kids and teens and also make them want to read about the various topics that I put in these books?”
Kids are our best resources. They are honest, live in the moment, and often express their strong feelings. Whenever I add or update topics in my books such as: gender, staying safe on the Internet, or Title X, the language I hear kids use is language I then use in my books, which I am told engages kids when reading my books.
Also, talk with various experts in each of the fields you are writing about so that you understand the facts and the research in order to pass that on in a responsible and clear way to those for whom you are writing.
Illustration copyright by Michael Emberly, published by Candlewick Press
Why should someone care about ensuring that all kids and teens—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
I am always hopeful that all kids and teens will receive the most responsible information about all aspects of sexuality, including information about conception and abortion.
How do we do that when we live in times in which the federal government and state governments are attempting to keep information on topics such as contraception from those who need it? And how do we do that when there are centers that do not give kids and teens accurate information, instead giving them information that is not true and not supported by evidenced-based research?
I believe the best way to serve all kids and teens is to continue the work that we are doing, no matter what.
Is there a highlight of your work that you’d like to share?
What keeps me going is hearing from kids and teens who read my book and then write to me. In that spirit, here are some of the words a 10-year-old wrote me: “I was really insecure about my body and the process of growing up before I read your book, It’s Perfectly Normal. I hated the fact that my body would change, and I would be a different person. While reading your book, I learned that I wouldn’t be a different person, and I wouldn’t have a different personality. I would just have a different body—which might be fun and a little bit scary!”
This 10-year-old went on to write about sharing the book with a friend and wondered if it could be fun even though it was still a little bit awkward to share it with a parent. This child then wrote, “I am almost done with the book. I am reading it with my mom right now.”
Isn’t this what we all hope for—that kids and parents will talk together about sexual health, even though at times it will be a little bit awkward for both?Wed, 30 Oct 2019 09:41:37 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/november-2019-power-playerSelf-Advocacy at the Provider’s Officehttps://powertodecide.org/news/self-advocacy-providers-office
Your sexual health affects you physically, mentally, and socially, so it’s very important to keep it in mind regardless of your gender identity, sexuality, relationship status, or sexual activity.
Wherever you fall on the gender and sexuality spectrum you may have birth control needs. If you (or your partner) have the potential to become pregnant, meaning you has a uterus and ovaries and you have penis-in-vagina sex with someone that can produce sperm, and you don’t want to be pregnant, you can use birth control to prevent pregnancy. And with every type of physical intimacy there is a chance of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HIV or chlamydia, so using dental dams, condoms, or internal condoms, depending on how you have sex can help protect you from STIs regardless of how you identify.
Unfortunately, for many in the LGBTQ community, access to health care that respects gender or orientation is not guaranteed. In 2018, the Center for American Progress released results from a survey of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer identifying patients which said that in the last year:
8% encountered a provider who refused to see them
6% were refused care by a provider
7% had a provider who would not recognize their family
9% heard harsh or abusive language from a provider treating them
7% experienced unwanted physical contact from a provider
The answers of transgender patients to the same questions show a larger problem:
29% encountered a provider who refused to see them
12% were refused care by a provider
23% had a provider who would not recognize their family
21% heard harsh or abusive language from a provider treating them
29% experienced unwanted physical contact from a provider
Gender or sexual minority individuals can contract STIs, have an unplanned pregnancy, or experience diseases of reproductive organs, such as endometriosis, ovarian or prostate cancer. All these factors make it imperative that queer people, and especially young people who identify as LGBTQ, receive inclusive and comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care.
How can queer people take care of their sexual well-being if their provider doesn’t step up and offer it proactively?
They can learn how to advocate for themselves and become empowered patients. Because every patient deserves high-quality and respectful care.
1. You have the right to end an appointment or exam if you do not feel comfortable, safe, or your provider isn’t listening to your needs.
For many patients going to see a health care provider can be a large investment of time, money, energy, or all of the above, but just because you show up does not mean you have to stay. If a doctor or other provider says or does anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, belittled, or threatened you have the right to end an exam or leave. Providers are responsible for more than giving you the best medical care they can offer, they should also give you respect. If that’s not happening, find someone who will.
2. You have the right to be treated as an equal. Providers are people, not gods.
It’s true that many health care providers go to school for years to learn specialized skills. But school isn’t everything and providers aren’t gods. If your feel as though you’re being spoken down to or your concerns aren’t being taken seriously, it’s okay to speak up or to leave (see #1). It’s always okay to let your provider know how you feel and ask them to treat you as an equal.
3. You have the right to recognize that providers have bias.
Providers are people. People have opinions and personal beliefs. But your provider should not pass on judgements. If you experience judgment, find a new provider.
4. You have the right to ask questions.
It’s normal to have questions when speaking to a health care provider. Ask them! And if your provider can’t answer them right away ask them to either find out and follow-up with you or point you to a resource where you can find the answer yourself.
5. You have the right to not get treatments and tests.
If you are uncomfortable with a treatment or test your provider wants to perform, tell them so. There are always alternatives to anything your provider recommends, including not doing anything. It’s always ok to tell them you want to think about it and come back for another appointment. Ask lots of questions and don’t feel as though you have to do anything simply because your provider suggests it.
6. You have the right to ask for tests you want.
On the flip side, if you believe that a test or treatment is necessary and your doctor doesn’t suggest it, speak up. Do you want an allergy test? Ask for it. Do you want a pap smear? Ask for it. Regardless of who you have sex with, it’s possible to have an STI, so it’s important for everyone to get tested. Don’t let your provider’s potential bias stop you from asking for and getting the care you want and deserve.Mon, 28 Oct 2019 11:32:00 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/self-advocacy-providers-officeThanks, Birth Control Day is November 13https://powertodecide.org/news/thanks-birth-control-day-november-13
We know how much you love birth control. And telling the world about why it matters is more important than ever. On Wednesday, November 13, we're asking you to get on social media and tell the world about your love.
Birth control makes a lot of amazing stuff possible. If you’re not ready for kids or to have more kids (or if you don’t ever want them), birth control lets you pursue your dreams and goals without having to worry about getting pregnant. It can also have tons of great benefits besides pregnancy prevention, like managing awful periods. It’s not just about sex, it’s about living life on your own terms.
To help you get your message out we've published a toolkit with everything you’ll need. From suggested social language to a sneak peak of our digital postcards, this kit has it all. You can access it here. Make sure you check back regularly as some things are still in progress so this is a living document that will be updated as we finalize details.
We want to hear what birth control has made possible for you so mark your calendars for November 13, and celebrate Thanks, Birth Control Day with us (and with everyone who is grateful for their method). We are always grateful for your support, passion, and participation.Thu, 24 Oct 2019 10:16:53 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/thanks-birth-control-day-november-13Why Learning About Sexual Health Matters https://powertodecide.org/news/why-learning-about-sexual-health-matters
Health class. The clock ticks mockingly in the corner of the room, separating us from our precious after school freedom. As a high school student, I understand the struggle of trying to tune into a lecture with seemingly no real-world value. However, if you’re a high school student as well, you should understand why learning about sexual health matters; 30% of teen girls cite pregnancy or parenthood as a key reason for dropping out of high school, and about half of high schoolers in America have their first sexual experience before graduation.
The need for sexual education is extremely important. Whether it’s for your or for a friend you never know when you could need it most. Here are a couple of things you should know about educating yourself:
Start Small
Although it may seem daunting, there are easy ways to learn more. Sexual health can seem like an overwhelming topic to discuss, let alone research, but a simple place you can start is with learning about the different types of birth control. There are three major categories of birth control, which can be classified as barrier, medication, or “traditional” methods. Everyone’s experience is different; what birth control people decide to use now could change in the future. Finding the method that works for you currently is what’s most important.
Ask Questions
The best way to inform yourself is by asking questions to trusted adults around you. You can further improve your understanding by having a simple conversation with someone who has had real life experiences and is open to talking about them. While it may seem awkward or intimidating to reach out, you should remember that your parents, teachers, and coaches were once teenagers too—they’ll be happy that you’re willing to have a mature, adult conversation with them. If you need ideas on questions to ask, click here.
Understand What Consent Looks Like
In high school, there’s a lot of peer pressure to have sex and be physically intimate with someone. However, it is important to understand and respect other people’s desires. Consent and open communication play a huge part in healthy relationships, and should always be understood no matter what. Talking to your partner about your boundaries before you get physical is a great way to ensure that both of you have a good time.
October is Power to Decide’s “Let’s Talk” Month, a month dedicated to having open conversations about sexual health and relationships. Although we are still young, sex is a very relevant and real topic in every day life. Don’t be afraid to educate yourself: you never know how much of a difference you can make in someone else’s life as well as your own by learning more.
Anna Labarca is a senior at Walt Whitman High School in Maryland. She writes for the student newspaper, The Black and White. She plans to study journalism in college and ins interning at Power to Decide to learn more about the role communications has in campaigns. Wed, 23 Oct 2019 11:15:17 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-learning-about-sexual-health-mattersHow a New Narrative Can Help Create Reproductive Well-Being for All https://powertodecide.org/news/how-new-narrative-can-help-create-reproductive-well-being-for-all
Sex, love, and relationships. Have you ever thought about how the world around us views those concepts? And in turn, how that influences our understanding of them? Our collective views on these topics are called narratives, which are a way of seeing the world and are accepted as true by a group of people. Narratives guide what we think, believe, and do, and can be powerful vehicles for social change.
There are countless narratives about reproductive health and sexuality, some of which are disempowering, shaming, or loaded with judgement about what is ‘right.’ These harmful narratives influence the confidence and support we feel, the care we receive, the information and services we access, and the autonomy we have over our bodies and futures.
What’s currently needed is a paradigm shift in our country’s culture. And other movements – from marriage equity to #metoo — have shown that cultural shifts of great magnitude are possible. We must build a new expectation and demand for a system of support that makes it possible for every person to achieve reproductive well-being. Addressing how we talk about reproductive well-being by creating a shared narrative is a crucial first step.
To create a new narrative that embodies reproductive well-being, we talked to over 300 people from across sectors, geographies, and backgrounds, to hear more about how they wanted to experience reproductive well-being. These are the core pillars they identified, centered on autonomy, agency, and empowerment:
Seen and understood: people want to be trusted by their providers and met where they are. They want their experiences, cultures, and desires to be respected. They want to receive information without judgment from providers who recognize that there is no ‘right’ answer to complex decisions.
Autonomous: people want the freedom and safety to experience sexuality on their own terms, as long as it is consensual and does not harm others. They want the power to make their own decisions about if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
In control: people want to receive access to all information and options available so they can make informed decisions. With this information they can create a healthy future for themselves and a healthy start for the next generation, if they choose to have or raise children.
Surrounded by communities and systems of support: people want reproductive well-being to be an essential component of overall health and well-being, not only in health care, but in society in general. People want it to be understood, discussed openly, and pursued by all.
So, what would a world look like that adopted this new narrative? Reproductive well-being would mean that all people have the information, services, and support they need to have control over their bodies and to make their own decisions related to sexuality and reproduction throughout their lives.
What we could expect from our providers would look different too. When we enter spaces of care, we could expect that:
All our questions would be answered without judgment.
All our concerns would be listened to and acknowledged without doubt.
We would share decision-making with our providers, and we would be given all the information to make independent, informed choices.
We would be asked about all parts of us and our overall well-being.
We would be listened to and given adequate time with our providers during our appointments.
In addition to advocating for ourselves, the systems around us would be built for us and with our best interest and holistic health in mind.
Join us and more than 40 other organizations across the spectrum of sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice in growing the Reproductive Well-Being Movement. All of us has a role in envisioning and practicing reproductive well-being in our personal and professional lives. Stay tuned as more information and resources will soon be published about how you can support this movement!
Jennifer Messenger (Executive Vice President) and Alexandra Nicholson (Director) are with Metropolitan Group, a national social impact communication firm with expertise in public health and social justice. Metropolitan Group has worked with Power to Decide on numerous initiatives, including research with hundreds of people across the country to create a new, shared narrative for reproductive well-being.Tue, 22 Oct 2019 13:58:33 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-new-narrative-can-help-create-reproductive-well-being-for-allCurrent Events and Young Peoplehttps://powertodecide.org/news/current-events-and-young-people
Young people are inundated with a lot of information from sources ranging from their social media accounts to their friends. Information can get distorted or a little confusing as it moves through all these channels. It is more than likely your young person has been reading up or hearing about the current events happening in the reproductive health space, such as Title X, abortion bans, and the need for increased access to birth control.
The next generation is eager to learn and get activated, but first, they might have a couple questions. As their champion, here are some tips on how to answer their most pressing questions about what’s happening. And, if they’re not asking these questions, use these tips to help start that conversation.
News Headline: 'Domestic Gag Rule’
The Title X Family Planning Program is the nation’s only federal funding dedicated to providing those most in need with free or low-cost contraceptive care. But in August, the “domestic gag rule” began to force many health centers to leave the Title X program and give up millions of dollars that have been used to provide low-income people with the care that they need. Many outlets that your young person may turn to such as Bustle, Refinery29 and Teen Vogue have covered this harmful rule, and they may have some questions about not only their access, but other young people’s access to reproductive health services across the Nation.
Currently, 19.5 million women of reproductive age living in the US are in need of publicly funded contraception and live in contraceptive deserts. As a result of the domestic gag rule, more than 390 counties have lost all or some access to services supported by Title X, impacting approximately 8.7 million low-income women. Your young person may be curious about what is happening and if it will affect them or any of their friends. It’s important to explain this new rule as well as the ways in which people are still able to access reproductive health services.
Many young people these days are activists either via social media or marching in the streets. One way your young person can get active surrounding the Domestic Gag Rule is to send a message to their representatives demanding that they protect the integrity of the Title X Program.
Not too caught up with the latest on this rule? Check out our blog before talking to your young person.
News Headline: Telemedicine
Thanks to technology, it’s now possible to get access to health care without stepping foot in a provider’s office. The futuristic practice has made headlines, so your young person may have some questions about the process. Along with being able to get prescriptions for dermatology, simple antibiotics, and even blood type testing, telemedicine is a great way to get birth control delivered to your door. There are quite a few options out there, so it’s important that your young person knows what to look for in a service. They may have questions about what’s available, how they’re going to pay for it, and what kind of permission they might need. Each service has different features and resources, so it’s a good idea to study up before choosing a provider. They can also see which services are available in their area on our clinic finder.
As previously mentioned, millions of US women live without access to birth control. We’ve partnered with telemedicine companies, like Nurx, Prjkt Ruby, Simple Health, Hey Doctor, and Twentyeight Health, to provide low-income women access to the birth control they need and deserve. Donate to BCBenefits, our contraceptive fund, to help women across the country get the birth control that’s right for them. A $50 donation supports a woman’s access to birth control for a year.
News Headline: Abortion Bans
Over the past year or so, several states have introduced legislation to ban abortions outright. To date, nine US states have passed some type of ban on abortion. Seeing something like this in the news can be daunting for a young person, causing them to worry about their own futures. Whether your young person is sexually active or not, it's important they understand how recent abortion bans function.
Abortion is a legal, safe, and common medical procedure. Even after Roe v Wade, legalized abortion in the United States more than 40 years ago, there were already state-level barriers in place, like laws that require special counseling or make people wait a certain amount of time between counseling and having the abortion. The abortion bans that are making headlines today are another layer of restrictions placed on individuals seeking out the full spectrum of reproductive care.
These proposed laws vary by state, with many not including exceptions for victims of rape or incest, and others criminalizing abortion from the moment of fertilization. If your young person asks, it’s important for them to know that none of the bans are in effect yet. To date, courts across the country are working to block these bans from taking effect, like most recently in Georgia.
It's important to have many of these conversations surrounding reproductive health year-round, regardless of what’s making waves in the news. Knowledge is power. Your young person might have a question about what's going on or could simply be curious about their own situation. If so, check out our Champion’s Guide on all the tips and resources you need to start these meaningful conversations about sex, love, and relationships with the young person in your life. If your young person is curious but doesn’t want to have that conversation with you, send them to our Teen Talk page. Mon, 21 Oct 2019 10:12:35 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/current-events-and-young-peopleNavigating Conversations with Teenshttps://powertodecide.org/news/navigating-conversations-teens
If you have a teenager you probably know it well: you used to have a child that would never stop talking and now everything is “fine” and “okay” and you wonder what’s going on in their lives. Although there are many things that teens are thinking about and experiencing that they do not want to share with their parents, one thing that many teens do want to talk about is birth control.
How do I know this? I run an app called okayso. We are part of Power to Decide’s Innovation Next program and we provide a safe place for teens to ask questions about sex and mental health. We’ve answered over 7,000 questions from young people across the United States on a huge range of topics from healthy relationships to stress to STIs. But one of the most common things young people ask about is birth control.
Teens have a lot of questions about birth control. They want to protect themselves from pregnancy, but they often lack basic information about how it works, available methods, and how to get it. And, they do want to talk to their parents about it, but they are terrified. They assume (rightly or wrongly) that their parents will not be supportive and decide that figuring it out for themselves is a better option than sharing.
If a teen feels like their parents might be supportive, then we help them figure out how to bring it up in a way that will have the best chance of success. Difficult conversations are hard! As adults, we’re often not very good at having them, so we coach teens on what to do.
Step one: Decide what they want to say. Instead of blurting it out, we encourage teens to think about why they’re bringing this up and how to best communicate that.
Step two: Pick a good time and place. We help young people think through when their parents are most able to listen. If everyone is too tired at night or too rushed in the morning, what about a weekend afternoon? A soccer game, probably not a great place. A long’ish car ride? Might be perfect.
Step three: Set the stage. We remind teens to start the conversation by saying they have something important to discuss. Sometimes teens forget that we aren’t mind readers - they need to get our attention by letting us know we really need to tune in to what they’re saying. And, it gives us time to emotionally prepare for whatever they’re about to say.
Step four: Say their piece and let their parent(s) have their reaction. It’s unreasonable to assume that anyone can take in a piece of information this big and just roll with it. Although it’s old news to the teen, we help them remember that it might take their parent a bit to adjust.
What if you’re a supportive parent? How can you let your teen know that they can talk to you about birth control? To really open up the space you can:
Be blunt: Just come right out and say, “if you ever need birth control, I will help”. You might get an “omg, stop!” reaction, but I guarantee you they will hear it.
Share: Talk about your own experiences with birth control.
Show: If you support organizations that provide birth control, be vocal about your beliefs.
Provide: Make sure your teen knows where to go for information. I love Bedsider (another program of Power to Decide) for all things birth control and Scarleteen for general information. okayso is also a great resource, of course - they’ll get personalized answers to all of their questions from trained and vetted experts.
As you navigate these conversations with your teen remember that as hard as it might seem, it’s not about you. If you’re having trouble starting the conversation, you’re in luck because October is Let’s Talk Month and you can get tons of tips on how to talk to your teen here. No matter what, remember to take deep breaths and focus on what your teen feels and needs in that moment. If you can respond taking that into account, you will be on the right track.
Elise Schuster is a sex educator, trainer, and youth developer and is the founder of okayso (https://okayso.app), a free app that connects people with questions about sex to experts who provide personalized answers. Thu, 17 Oct 2019 09:55:13 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/navigating-conversations-teensLet’s Talk Access with Simple Healthhttps://powertodecide.org/news/lets-talk-access-simple-health
We often talk about how birth control is a basic part of health care and how access to the full range of contraceptive methods is critical to having the power to decide your future. But a lack of access impacts more than 19.5 million women in the US in need of publicly funded contraception. For these women getting contraception means having to do more than show up to an appointment. They must find a babysitter, take time off work, or travel long distances to access their preferred birth control method.
During Let’s Talk Month we’ve partnered with Simple Health for their #KissMyAccess campaign to ignite conversation around the lack of awareness around birth control access. Despite its importance, we know that people just don’t talk about birth control. And by not talking about it, reproductive health awareness, access, and progress—as well as women themselves—have suffered.
We know it’s not easy. Simple Health surveyed patients and found that 70% have struggled to access birth control in the past, 55% have felt uncomfortable talking about birth control with family, and 47% have felt the need to take their birth control discreetly.
If you’ve ever struggled to get your birth control—because of cost, insurance coverage, doctor interference, time off, or any other reason—we’re asking you to publicly talk about it. Share your story on Instagram or Twitter with the hashtag #KissMyAccess, and for each tagged post in October, Simple Health will donate one month of birth control to an uninsured woman.
By talking about your birth control journey, you’re helping uninsured women get access and inspiring women everywhere to own the conversation. And while you’re talking, why not start a conversation with a young person in your life about sex, love, and relationships? Parents and champions are the #1 resource young people look to for information on these topics. Talking about sex and birth control helps teens to make better decisions and supports an open relationship that will allow them to pursue the future they want on their own terms.
Get inspired. Use your voice. Let’s talk.Tue, 15 Oct 2019 10:10:06 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/lets-talk-access-simple-healthHER Salt Lake and Family Planning Elevatedhttps://powertodecide.org/news/her-salt-lake-and-family-planning-elevated
In Utah, more than 100,000 people fall in the contraceptive coverage gap. This means they have to pay out-of-pocket for contraceptive services and methods because they are either uninsured, underinsured, or undocumented. The HER Salt Lake Contraceptive Initiative and Family Planning Elevated are two programs in Utah that work to increase access to equitable, person-centered, comprehensive contraceptive care.
The HER Salt Lake Contraceptive Initiative launched in March 2016 and for one year provided no-cost comprehensive contraceptive care to 7,402 individuals at four Planned Parenthood health centers in Salt Lake County, Utah, which has a population of over 1 million people.
HER Salt Lake served reproductive aged clients who were starting or switching a method. Clients were offered all reversible methods of contraception, including IUDs and implants and they could return to the clinic and switch methods without cost as many times as they wanted for three years.
Among the clients served, 4,425 enrolled in a longitudinal study and completed surveys over the course of three years, responding to questions about educational attainment, economic outcomes, and method acceptability and satisfaction.
Some highlights from the study so far include:
When costs were removed, clients were twice as likely to choose an IUD or implant. Important to note though, approximately 48% of clients still chose the pill, ring, or shot. Offering all methods is imperative.
One-third of HER Salt Lake participants did not identify or behave as exclusively heterosexual. It’s important to provide contraceptive care that is inclusive, and not assume that all contraceptive clients are straight, or that lesbian and bisexual women don’t want contraception.
When the HER Salt Lake Contraceptive Initiative ended in 2017, the need for contraceptive care did not. The team behind HER Salt Lake designed Family Planning Elevated to be a sustainable, statewide contraceptive initiative in Utah and launched in February 2019.
Utilizing the lessons learned from HER Salt Lake and contraceptive initiatives across the country, Family Planning Elevated created an innovative offering to help build capacity in Federally Qualified Health Centers, rural clinics, and County Health Departments to provide comprehensive, person-centered contraceptive care.
Clinics in Utah apply to be a member of Family Planning Elevated’s Contraceptive Access Program and receive a cash grant and customized technical training and support to improve contraceptive services in their health center. Family Planning Elevated also covers the costs of contraceptive services and methods for clients who are uninsured, underinsured, or undocumented with incomes between 101-250% federal poverty level. The program works to cover Utahns in the contraceptive coverage gap and has a goal of expanding contraceptive care to 21,000 Utahns by the end of 2021—because everyone deserves equitable, comprehensive person-centered contraceptive care without economic or geographic barriers.
Kyl Myers, PhD, MS is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Planning Division, at the University of Utah School of Medicine. Dr. Myers is the director of the statewide contraceptive initiative, Family Planning Elevated.Mon, 14 Oct 2019 09:41:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/her-salt-lake-and-family-planning-elevated8 People Remember Giving or Getting “The Talk”https://powertodecide.org/news/8-people-remember-giving-or-getting-talk
In a recent poll, respondents between age 18 and older told us that when they were teens their parents most influenced them when it came to considering matters related to sex and birth control.
Yet, young people are often reluctant to approach the champions in their lives with questions or concerns about relationships, sex, and contraception. We too often misinterpret this silence as lack of interest, and we hold back. Sex education can take a variety of forms and can come from a variety of sources. And with a little preparation it doesn’t have to be awkward.
For some, their parent’s give them the facts and let them explore the rest on their own:
“I had a kid's encyclopedia and as I got to the part about anatomy and sex, I asked my mom what it all meant. She took a look at it with me was like, yep that's how it works.” – Katrina, 32, Virginia
“My mom was always upfront with me about sex. If I came to her with questions, she taught me using words like vagina and penis, we didn't have funny words for things. But when I was 8 a friend told me her mom was pregnant and said they’d prayed and made a baby. I told her, no they had sex and she got upset. But it was the truth!” – Victoria, 25, Virginia
For others, sex education comes from a parent as part of a larger conversation:
My teenage daughter has always been a voracious reader. She's also not too keen on Big Talks face-to-face. I started leaving books about physical development out around our house from the time she was in elementary school, knowing that her curiosity would save me from having to "assign" the reading to her. Later, I'd check in and see what she thought about what she read...which parts left her with questions, etc. Now I leave articles from trusted magazines like Seventeen out and I can refer back to them, knowing that we're having the same conversation but in a way that doesn't drive her out of the room. – Marisa, 51, Washington, DC
Some people get knowledge from different sources at different times in their life:
“My mom locked me in the car to give me the sex talk because I kept trying to avoid her! She laid out a very basic, heteronormative version of things while I was wildly uncomfortable in the passenger seat. Then in college my girlfriend and I sat through a second version of the talk with an older friend. It was both of our first same-sex relationship and our friend made it a much less stressful experience to learn about a whole new kind of sex education.” – Maggie, 29, Colorado
Friend or older siblings champion some young people’s journeys:
"I was lucky to have my older sister and her best friend give me “The Talk.” It was nice because I wasn't too afraid to ask them questions or talk about it with them. And I didn't have to have an embarrassing discussion with my mom." – Claire, 24, Wisconsin
“I talked to Claire because her sister and I wanted her to read a book series that dealt with periods and sex. We knew she needed to understand the ideas before she read the books, and so we huddled together around the kitchen island. We worried it’d feel awkward, but it didn’t! She asked questions, we answered, and it became a discussion, not a lecture.” – Maggi, 29, Wisconsin
Not having a parent or champion to talk to about sex encourages some to ensure that today’s young people aren’t alone:
“I’m certified to teach sexuality to 7th and 8th graders as an extra-curricular and we’re spending an entire year on exploring what sexuality means to them. It’s really exciting to have the chance to give to these kids something that I didn’t get myself; an open and comprehensive discuss around sex, love, and relationships. – Mackenzie, 28, Washington
Sex education comes in many forms and from many sources. Everyone knows at least one young person and if you don’t talk to them, who will? Discussions around sex, love, and relationships have real and lasting impacts. Not talking about these topics has an impact too.
“I never had anyone outside of school give me “The Talk.” I think I would have made some different decisions if someone who wasn’t my teacher had talked to me about sex.” – Shannon, 32, New York
Now is the time to be that trusted and powerful source in a young person’s life by pledging to start the conversation. Sit down with a young person and tell them, “Let’s talk.”Fri, 11 Oct 2019 09:29:00 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/8-people-remember-giving-or-getting-talkOctober 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/october-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. In honor of Domestic Abuse Awareness Month check out this month's Power Player profile.
Amy Goldberg
Executive Director and Co-Founder, Anchor Fund
What work have you done to ensure that young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
The Anchor Fund provides emergency financial support through partnerships across Washington, DC with leading domestic abuse and sexual violence organizations. Domestic violence is the third leading cause of homelessness among families nationwide, and while our work largely helps underserved populations our clients come from all backgrounds.
When cases come across an advocate’s desk where a patient needs women’s health care, but they can’t pay for it, we step in. In some cases, these women (and they are largely women) have no insurance or their insurance won’t cover something such as therapy after leaving an abusive relationship. We have also helped college students who don’t want a hospital bill to show up on their parents’ insurance after they’ve been assaulted.
Beyond paying for hospital visits, medical bills, and prescriptions, we also help women pay for the costs associated with leaving an abuser. One form of domestic abuse is reproductive coercion. It is common in abusive relationships for women to face sexual assault from their abusers as well as being forced into have many pregnancies. We have helped survivors with 5, 6, or 7 children; their partners kept them pregnant over the course of the relationship as a means of control. When they and their children leave, they need a lot of support and the women we help have no other way to pay for their expenses in order to break the cycle of violence. To date we’ve helped over 700 people and distributed over $275,000.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
In 2013 I was volunteering for a domestic abuse organization that provides pro bono legal services. The need for emergency funding revealed itself as so many survivors needed financial support. Transportation costs, security deposits, rent, and health care are only a few of the needs that grow in these situations. And they’re all crucial to helping women leave and stay away from their abusers. I wanted to create a fund to help survivors break the cycle of abuse. Since starting the Anchor Fund in 2014, we have over 20 partners across the DC metro area. Regularly new organizations learn about us and the support we provide to survivors. I’m driven by the stories I hear of survivors who face horrible circumstances and persevere. I want to help these women to live safe, secure, and happy lives. I believe that if more women helped women achieve those goals than fewer women would face physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. In the next five years we plan to go deeper in the DC Metropolitan area to partner with more organizations and agencies with the intent of helping more women.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
In one word, perseverance. If you have an idea to affect change, stick with it. It takes time to build the organization that you envision and only through perseverance and patience will it happen. The Anchor Fund started with only one partner and we now have over 20. We came up with our model, our programming, and we ignored people who asked why we don’t do different or more programming. Stay focused and never give up.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Every woman deserves the power to decide what to do with her body and her life. Child raising is physically demanding and takes a lot of financial and emotional strength as well. I believe to not allow a woman that decision is a form of abuse.
I don’t know why anyone wouldn’t care that each and every woman has the power to decide her own reproductive future. I would never change my decision to have three children, but every woman deserves the power to make that decision for themselves.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
I’m excited to see your work with BCBenefits and I hope that in the future we can connect and support each other’s work.Wed, 09 Oct 2019 10:22:43 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/october-2019-power-playerDr. Ruth Westheimer says #TalkingIsPower with a Screening and Discussion of “Ask Dr. Ruth”https://powertodecide.org/news/dr-ruth-westheimer-says-talkingispower-screening-and-discussion-ask-dr-ruth
Power to Decide, Hulu, Magnolia Pictures, and New York University hosted a special evening with Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the world-renowned sex therapist, author, and media personality on the campus of New York University late August.
Media leaders, advocates for health, educators, university staff, and students gathered for a screening of the critically-acclaimed film "Ask Dr. Ruth," followed by a lively and memorable discussion with Dr. Ruth Westheimer and our CEO, Ginny Ehrlich. Dr. Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, a member of our Board and a Professor and Associate Vice Provost of New York University, hosted the event and shared his perspective on the power of open conversations. According to producers, the film “chronicles the life story of Dr. Ruth Westheimer, a Holocaust survivor who became America's most famous sex therapist. As her 90th birthday approaches, she revisits her painful past and career at the forefront of the sexual revolution.”
This event was part of #TalkingIsPower, our national effort to spark meaningful conversations about sex, love, and relationships between young people and the champions who care about them most. Parents and champions share in a unique position to talk to young people about issues that impact them most; specifically, the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. In fact, parents and champions are most influential when it comes to young people’s decisions about sex.
When asked about ways to engage in these types of conversations with young people, Dr. Ruth noted young people’s natural curiosity and encouraged the crowd to leave sex-ed information around the house to help foster that curiosity: “If they are reluctant to ask questions, leave a book and they will read it.” Something as simple as an open book on the coffee table will draw in young people to read and develop their own questions surrounding sex, love, relationships, and birth control in which they will come to their parents, mentors, and allies for answers.
Dr. Ruth shared the newly updated fourth edition of her classic “Sex For Dummies,” which includes updated information about Millennials and relationships as well as specifics on talking with children and young adults about sex.
We genuinely thank Dr. Ruth and Hulu for sharing her life story, generating such rich conversation, and providing advice that keeps people talking and helps to drive teen and unplanned pregnancy rates to historic lows.
It’s now Let’s Talk Month and we challenge all parents and champions to continue talking to the young people in their lives about sex. Even if the young person in your life seems uninterested, keep talking! These conversations serve as tools that can help parents and champions better understand what is going on in the lives of young people and will lay the foundation for life-long, open, and honest relationships rich in communication.
Watch the film and join the conversation by using the hashtags, #TalkingIsPower and #AskDrRuth and tagging our partner, @Hulu.Tue, 08 Oct 2019 12:39:31 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/dr-ruth-westheimer-says-talkingispower-screening-and-discussion-ask-dr-ruthDiscussing Sexual Well-Being and Empowerment in the Bronxhttps://powertodecide.org/news/discussing-sexual-well-being-and-empowerment-bronx
Of all of New York City’s boroughs, the Bronx has the highest rate of STIs. A 2016 youth risk behavior survey found that roughly 40% of teens hadn’t used a condom the last time they had sex. The rate of chlamydia infections per 100,000 people in the Bronx is nearly double the rate in other boroughs.
On September 17th we partnered with Lehman College and held a summit to discuss this disparity and to increase awareness around sexual health, contraception, and consent with students and faculty from The City University of New York (CUNY) schools.
New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera, Chairman of the Health Committee, delivered opening remarks. “As the Bronx continues to face high rates of sexually transmitted infections, it is our responsibility as adults to empower and educate our youth so that they become healthy and successful members of our communities.”
“There’s a difference between treating and preventing. We’ve gotten pretty good as a country if you have access to health care at treating illness. But what we haven’t gotten good at is preventing it,” Dr. Stanley Bazile, Dean of Students at Lehman College said in his introduction. “Days like today are part of our effort to change that.”
“A lot of our students haven’t had exposure to sex-positive health education, and this is an opportunity to teach it in a safe, inclusive, and confidential environment,” said Dugeidy Ortiz, Director of Lehman College’s Wellness Education and Promotion who organized the summit.
As one of the most diverse school systems in the nation, CUNY prides itself on its students. A group of more than 50 confirmed Ortiz’s statement. One, age 49 and a mother of two, felt blown away by the conversation and how attitudes around sexual health and well-being have completely changed since her childhood. She wondered how to best teach her children as they get closer to their teen years. Another student whose family came to the United States from the Caribbean wanted advice on how to start a conversation with her family as the culture she comes from finds it taboo to talk about sex and reproductive health.
Supporting conversations around topics such as sex, relationships, contraception, and consent is paramount to ensuring CUNY's vibrant students succeed in school and in life beyond campus.
When asked about why disparities exist in the Bronx, Stuart Chen-Hayes, PhD, Professor of Counselor Education said, “It’s my experience that disparities in part occur because we have a lot of folks in the Bronx who are frightened of talking about sex or culturally and/or religiously it is not ok to talk about it.”
In addition to highlighting disparities that lead to poor sexual and reproductive health outcomes, the summit also allowed panel members and participants to engage in discussions around how to better promote already existing initiatives that address disparities; increase understanding of trauma-informed approaches to sexual and reproductive health; and create more awareness about inclusive sexual and reproductive health care.
Panelist Raffaele M. Bernardo, DO, FACP, AAHIVS, an Attending Physician at Montefiore Medical Center, gave this advice, “It’s about education … this isn’t new we just haven’t talked about it. The more educated you are about the topic the easier it’s going to be to have these conversations.”
We must empower all young people with the tools to live life on their own. This summit is just one example of how we can make resources and information available that promote healthy relationships and sexual health. We will continue to host summits alongside other efforts, all of which we hope will further remove the stigma that often surrounds topics related to sex, love, and relationships.Mon, 07 Oct 2019 11:24:49 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/discussing-sexual-well-being-and-empowerment-bronxConversation Challenge: Let's Talk 2019https://powertodecide.org/news/conversation-challenge-lets-talk-2019
Parents and champions are the #1 resource young people look to for information on sex, love, and relationships. That can cause a lot of pressure for parents and champions, but it doesn’t have to. We've provided a challenge with talking prompts to help you get started.
Pair up with a young person in your life.
Share the social prompts below on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram once per week for 4 weeks (i.e. one prompt for each week of October).
Follow the prompt guidelines to jumpstart conversations with your young person about topics related to sex, love, relationships, and contraception. These prompts serve as quick and easy ways to talk with your teen about these topics which in return will form a relationship between you and your teen that is authentic and rich in communication.
Share what you’ve learned with friends, family, and on your social channels, at the end of the month.
Prompt Guidelines:
Challenge 1 (Week 1): Make note of your values, beliefs, and understandings about sex, love, and relationships.
Conversations about sex, love, relationships and contraception give you an opportunity to share accurate information with your teen and to discuss your sexual values. Your values influence how you talk about these topics, so take some time to think ahead about what messages you want to send. Use the questions below to help you clarify your sexual values, beliefs, and understandings:
At what age did you begin to date? When is the right time to start dating?
Were you sexually active as a teen? What do you think about school-aged teens being sexually active? Becoming parents?
Did you use contraception as a teen? What do you think about teens using contraceptives? Is abstinence best for teens?
Who is responsible for setting limits in a relationship? How is that done?
How do the answers to these questions affect what you will say to your teen?
Challenge 2 (Week 2): Use “teachable moments” to start the conversation.
Teach your teen to think critically by talking with them about what they are learning about sex from the TV shows and ads they watch, the magazine articles they read, and the music they listen to. We’ve listed below a few questions your young person may be curious about. Try using popular culture to address these questions. If they’re hesitant to bring these questions up to you, perhaps you could try framing them in a “what would you do if…” way:
How will I know when I’m ready to have sex? Should I wait until marriage?
Will having sex make me popular? Will it make me more mature?
How do I tell my partner that I’m not ready for sex?
How do I manage pressure from my peers about having sex?
Can you get pregnant the first time having sex?
How does contraception work? Are some methods better than others? Are they safe?
Challenge 3 (Week 3): Define and discuss the meaning of love and what indicates a healthy relationship.
Despite sometimes being short-lived, adolescent relationships have a huge impact on young people. They play an important role in young people’s day-to-day lives and have a significant impact on their ongoing emotional and social development. They also lay the foundation for romantic relationships in adulthood. Help your teen choose friends and significant others with similar values of yours by discussing the meaning of love:
What does it mean to love someone? How is that done?
How does love differ between family members, friends, and significant others?
How do you think people know when they’ve met the right person?
What does it mean to be in love with someone? Will sex bring you closer to your partner?
What are the key elements of a healthy, long-lasting relationship?
Challenge 4 (Week 4): Share a story.
Oftentimes, it is easier for parents to start the conversation by sharing a personal experience. Share a story with your teen about an encounter with sex, love, or a relationship you’ve had as a teen/young adult and how that experience impacted your adulthood (you can also share a story about family communication about sex). This will act as an indicator for teens that their parent is open to sharing genuine information to which they can relate. After sharing your story, be sure to discuss the following to your teen:
Did you have a champion in your life to discuss sex, love, and relationships with as a teen? Were you able to openly and honestly talk with them about sex, love, and relationships? Why or why not?
What is the importance of doing so with your teen?
Ask your teen to share an experience with you.
Conversations about sex, love and relationships should include asking your teen what they think and know. Listen as much as—or more than—you talk to be sure their voice is being heard and their opinion is being respected.Thu, 03 Oct 2019 09:17:49 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/conversation-challenge-lets-talk-2019Join Us in Building a Nationwide Reproductive Well-Being Movementhttps://powertodecide.org/news/join-us-building-nationwide-reproductive-well-being-movement
Currently, more than 19.5 million women live in contraceptive deserts, counties without reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods. And shockingly, an estimated 11.2 million women age 19-64 lack access to any form of health insurance, and therefore cannot receive no- or low-cost birth control. These factors make it extremely difficult for women to have the power to decide their futures and to have control over their reproductive well-being.
What is Reproductive Well-Being?
Reproductive well-being means that all people have the information, services, and support they need to have control over their bodies and to make their own decisions related to sexuality and reproduction throughout their lives. We envision a culture and system of support that makes it possible for every person—no matter who they are or where they live—to achieve the reproductive outcomes they want, whether or not they have children; and for those who do want a child, ensure healthy outcomes for themselves and their families. To achieve this, we have been working with more than 40 national, state, and local organizations to build a nationwide Reproductive Well-Being Movement (RWBM).
How can I join the movement?
As the next chapter of this ongoing work, and with generous funding from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, we are convening a shared learning collaborative of 10 place-based teams with cross-sectoral representation (e.g., women’s and men’s health, education, economic development, etc.). We want teams committed to building a system of support for reproductive well-being in their regions or communities. And we’ll provide each selected team with a $10,000 award each year of the project, ongoing and customized coaching, and travel support to attend capacity building and collective impact training throughout the 3-year project period.
Teams will work to establish a collaborative approach to implementing a portfolio of evidence-informed interventions that support reproductive well-being; foster and catalyze innovation through participation in a learning community; and share learnings, stories, and innovations to seed and inform collective impact work in additional locations around the nation.
We encourage you to consider applying! The application is attached to this blog and can also be found here. We have also created an FAQ document for your convenience. Completed applications should be submitted via email to rfp@powertodecide.org and are due no later than 5:00 pm ET on Friday, November 1, 2019.Wed, 02 Oct 2019 12:01:39 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/join-us-building-nationwide-reproductive-well-being-movementWelcome to Let’s Talk Month 2019https://powertodecide.org/news/welcome-lets-talk-month-2019
Parents and champions are the #1 resource young people look to for information on sex, love, and relationships. Parents are in a unique position to talk to their children about issues that can have significant life consequences.
Every October we celebrate the special relationship between young people and their champions with Let’s Talk Month. Over the course of the month we’ll post conversation starters, personal stories, and helpful tips on how to begin and continue to have conversations with young people around sex, love, and relationships.
Parents and champions are in a unique position to talk to their children about issues that can have significant life consequences, but we recognize that knowing how to navigate these conversations can feel awkward. The materials we’ll post will feature young people discussing why talking is important and what they want to hear from the trusted adults in their lives.
To learn more about these important tools and to view materials this year’s Talking Is Power Month, please go here.
Start early. Talk often. You’re more powerful than you think.Tue, 01 Oct 2019 10:19:37 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/welcome-lets-talk-month-2019September 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/september-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are twelve stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Birth Control
Cost Minimization Analysis of Same-Day Long-Acting Reversible Contraception for Adolescents
The results of this study showed that providing interested adolescents with a long-active reversible contraceptive (such as an IUD or the implant) on the same day as their clinic visit could lead to substantial savings on the part of insurance providers as well as a decrease in unplanned pregnancy and abortion.
Sexual and Reproductive Health
In Their Own Voices: Low-income Women and Their Health Providers in Three Communities Talk about Access to Care, Reproductive Health, and Immigration
The findings of this report are organized into six domains: contraceptive services, costs and coverage, abortion care, mental health and intimate partner violence, social determinants of health, and immigration policies. The report gathers data from focus group interviews with low-income, reproductive ages women and their providers in San Francisco, Tucson, and Atlanta.
Public Knowledge of Human Papillomavirus and Receipt of Vaccination Recommendations
Health People 2020 has set a goal of 80% vaccination coverage against HPV. However, as of 2017, the US has only achieved coverage of 48.6%. This study looked at national levels of knowledge about HPV and the estimated number of HPV vaccine recommendations by a health care provider.
Association Between Forced Sexual Initiation and Health Outcomes Among US Women
This study asked the question, “What is the prevalence of forced sexual initiation among women and girls in the United States and its association with reproductive, gynecologic, and general health outcomes?” It found that forced sexual initiation is common among women and associated with several negative health outcomes including an increased likelihood of experiencing an unwanted pregnancy or abortion.
State-by-State Health Insurance Coverage among Women of Reproductive Age in 2017
Created by the Urban Institute, these fact sheets show health insurance coverage among women age 15-44 across all 50 states and DC.
Support for Sex Education and Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Programmes in the USA
This study reinforces our own research that the majority of the general public supports sex education and federally funded teen pregnancy prevention programs.
Abortion
Abortion Incidence and Service Availability in the United States, 2017
In 2017, an estimated 862,320 abortions occurred in clinical settings in the US. This marks a 7% decline since 2014 and the continuation of a long-term downward trend. Clinics provided 95% of abortions with private physicians’ offices and hospitals making up the other 5%.
Predicted Changes in Abortion Access and Incidence in a Post-Roe World
This study found that any reversal or weakening of the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade will likely lead more disparities in access to abortion, which could potentially lead to a reduced number of abortions and an increased number of unplanned pregnancies.
Pregnancy and Birth
Information and Power: Women of Color's Experiences Interacting with Health Care Providers in Pregnancy and Birth
This study found explored the patient-provider experience among pregnant women of color. Results suggest, the way providers withhold and disseminate information around pregnancy and childbirth directly influence the autonomy and decision-making of expectant mothers.
Availability of Services Related to Achieving Pregnancy in US Publicly Funded Family Planning Clinics
Whether or not a clinic accepts Title X funding directly affects the availability of certain services related to pregnancy. The study looked at the availability of basic infertility services, reproductive life plan assessment, screening for body mass index, screening for sexually transmitted diseases, provision of natural family planning services, infertility treatment, and primary care services.
A Qualitative Assessment of Perspectives on Getting Pregnant
This study looked to better understand how people view and approach pregnancy. They found that study participants described pregnancy (or pregnancy avoidance) as either a deliberate, planned process, something that “just happens” such as an act of faith, or a blend of the two ideas.
Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Pregnancy-Related Deaths — United States, 2007–2016
Annually around 700 women in the US die as a result of pregnancy or its complications. This report looks specifically at racial and ethnic disparities within this population and found that from 2007-2016 black and American Indian/Alaska Native women experienced significantly more pregnancy-related deaths than their white, Latino, and Asian/Pacific Islander peers.Mon, 30 Sep 2019 09:58:29 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/september-2019-power-updates-editionHow Can You Help Celebrate World Contraception Day?https://powertodecide.org/news/how-can-you-help-celebrate-world-contraception-day
Today is World Contraception Day, an international annual event, which celebrates the existence of birth control and imagines a world where all women have the power to decide, if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. A campaign of Your Life, the day’s mission is, “to improve awareness of contraception and to enable young people to make informed choices on their sexual and reproductive health.”
Across the world more than 41% of all pregnancies are unplanned, and in the United States 80% of pregnancies among young women age 18 to 29 are described by the women themselves as unplanned. Unlike many other health issues, unplanned pregnancy is completely preventable. Among the 1.3 million unplanned pregnancies annually, only 5% occurred in women using birth control carefully and consistently. In the other 95% the couple didn’t intend to get pregnant, but their behavior didn’t match their intention. The reasons for this are complex, but it often comes down to a lack of access to information and the full range of contraceptive methods.
Using birth control allows people to plan for a family on their own terms and gives them the power to decide their own destinies. And we know that the majority of adults—regardless of race/ethnicity, region, and political affiliation—believe that birth control should be considered a basic part of women’s health care. Yet, 19.5 million women across the country don’t have reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods.
These women live in contraceptive deserts and to get contraception they’ve got to do more than show up to an appointment. They must find childcare, take time off work, or travel long distances to access their preferred birth control method. Deep in the heart of those deserts, the situation is even worse for the 1.6 million women in need live who live in counties without a single health center that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.
To fill these gaps and reduce barriers, we created BCBenefits. A contraceptive access fund, BCBenefits supports women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. The fund helps low income women overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers in access to contraception, such as transportation. Additionally, the fund helps women afford the cost of their contraception by reimbursing them for direct costs that are not covered by insurance.
In honor of this year’s World Contraception Day, Nurx, the health tech company focused on sensitive health needs and the leading online provider for contraception, is donating $10,000 to BCBenefits. They have also agreed to provide 1,000 low-income women with a one-year supply of birth control at no cost.
For the cost of date night, you also can provide a woman with a year’s birth control. We’ve partnered with telemedicine companies (like Nurx) to provide a year’s worth of birth control to a woman’s door for just $50. Donate to BCBenefits today help women across the country get the birth control that’s right for them.Thu, 26 Sep 2019 09:42:09 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-can-you-help-celebrate-world-contraception-dayKeeping Up With Your Sexual Health In Collegehttps://powertodecide.org/news/keeping-your-sexual-health-college
Summer has officially ended, school has started again, and the class of 2023 has entered college. College is just another word for “freedom” for many young people, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s a place and a time for you to transition into a new phase of your life: adulthood. For many, college is the first time you’re entirely responsible for feeding yourself, doing all your own laundry, getting to class on time, and balancing your responsibilities with your friendships.
But if you’re a freshman (or even an upper-classperson!), don’t let taking care of your sexual health slip off your to-do list. Your sexual health you physically, mentally, and socially, so it’s very important to keep it in mind regardless of your relationship status or sexual activity.
Here are four ways to make sure you’re keeping up with your sexual health while in college:
Consider All Your Birth Control Options.
Everyone’s birth control journey is different. If you’re not on birth control right now, or if you are but aren’t sure it’s right for you, visit a provider to talk to them about all of the methods available to you. It’s important that your method works for you right now. Something that worked for you in the past may not work anymore now that you’re in college. Birth control gives the ability to plan for the future you want. You deserve the opportunity to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
When thinking through which methods will work for you, consider what you want to get from your birth control and what matters most to you. Here are a few questions to think about before you talk to a provider:
Is how effective the method is at preventing pregnancy your highest priority?
How do you feel about using a method that contains hormones?
Is having a low-cost method the most important thing right now?
Do you want to continue to get your period every month or are you okay with having lighter or no periods while on a method?
Are you okay with having to remember to take a pill every day?
Are STIs a concern for you?
If you prefer to take a pill every day, get the Bedsider birth control reminder app; or if you’d rather have a longer-acting method try the implant or IUD. Whatever you end up using, remember that it’s okay to go back to your provider if you have concerns or questions or if it’s just not working out. There are a number of different methods out there and there really is something for everybody.
Get Tested for and Treat STIs.
Of course, not all methods of birth control prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Only condoms (either internal or external) can prevent pregnancy and also STIs. Dental dams can also help prevent STIs if you’re having oral sex.
If you have sex without one of these barrier methods, or if your barrier method fails, see a health care provider to get tested. If you have an STI, make sure you get the treatment you need.
Men and women should both make sure they’ve gotten their HPV vaccines. The most common STI, HPV can often be symptomless or even go away on its own. But, some forms can lead to cancer, which is why the CDC recommends getting the entire series of vaccines.
Proactively Take Care of Your Sexual Journey.
Beyond birth control and STIs there are other things you can do to make sure you live your healthiest life.
Take the time to think about what you do and don’t feel comfortable doing with another person. Defining your boundaries and understanding what you like and don’t like before entering a sexual situation not only gives you a better understanding of yourself but will prevent you from depending on a partner to direct your experiences and journey. And if you decide you’re not yet ready to have sex or engage in sexual activity, that’s totally normal!
Consent is also a key part of ensuring positive sexual experiences and good sexual health. Though it’s often taught as “no means no,” that’s only a part of it. Enthusiastic consent is a way to communicate your desires, learn about your partner’s desires, and be proactive about consent.
Remember, sexual health encompasses more than just your body; it involves your brain too. So, if you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or scared by the thought of sex or by something that’s happening in your sex life, talk to a trusted mentor, check out your university’s mental health options, or talk to your provider about how you’re feeling.
Understand Your Resources.
Along with all the other changes it can bring, if going to college involves a move for you, it may change where you can receive care and how you’ll pay for it. Make sure you understand what kind of insurance you have (Are you getting it through your university? Are you still covered under a parent or guardian’s plan?) and what coverage it provides you (How much is your copay? What services are you entitled to for free? Are you limited to certain clinics or hospital networks?).
Then figure out what your on-campus options are; start by checking out your campus health center’s website. If your health center doesn’t offer a wide variety of services, your future self will thank you for finding another provider nearby. Just check with them first about whether they take your insurance. If your school does provide the services you think you’ll need, you may find it helpful to save the contact info for the campus health center and a campus mental health counselor so you can contact them easily if you need them.
Starting off freshman year, it's easy to get lost in making new friends, joining a variety of clubs, and figuring out exactly where your Bio lab is held each week. But while you're having all that fun, don't forget your health. By thinking ahead and looking out for your future self you can ensure you have the best college experience possible.Wed, 25 Sep 2019 14:17:31 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/keeping-your-sexual-health-collegeAnd the Winner Is...https://powertodecide.org/news/and-winner
Photo Credit: Invision/AP
The 2019 Emmy Awards offered up many groundbreaking moments. Calls for equal pay, for trans rights, and Jharrel Jerome’s win for “When They See Us” —making him the first Afro-Latino to win an Emmy award for acting—reminded everyone that representation on television helps drive, shape, and reflect cultural shifts.
In that spirit, we’ve gathered 6 of our favorite TV series—and one film! —for their informative, thought-provoking portrayals of sex, love, relationships, pregnancy, and the context in which it all happens. Three in four young people age 12 to 24 say that when characters they can relate to in TV/movies deal with sex and unplanned pregnancy, it helps them think about how they would handle similar situations, and more than half of young people say that something in pop culture has sparked a conversation with parents and other champions about sex, love, and relationships.
We chose this critically-acclaimed lineup because each show takes on sex and relationships with humor, depth, and messy authenticity as an essential part of its characters’ ongoing journeys—not in a one-off ‘very special episode.’ Whether you watch (or re-watch) these shows with your young people or on your own to pave the way for future discussions, there’s no shortage of conversation-starting moments. After you finish watching, read these tips to get you started.
The Bold Type (Freeform): Inspired by life at Cosmopolitan, Jane, Kat, and Sutton work at fictional Scarlet magazine, navigating friendships, careers, relationships, future goals, and the power to decide their futures. Nothing is off the table—from egg freezing to emergency contraception to sexual identity—generating real-time conversations during weekly live-tweets with cast and producers.Watch: https://freeform.go.com/shows/the-bold-type Follow: @TheBoldTypeTV
Sex Education (Netflix): Maeve and Otis run an underground sex therapy clinic in their high school (inspired by Otis’s mom’s sex therapy practice), tackling every aspect of sexuality, relationships, biology, betrayal, and identity in this extremely candid and educational coming-of-age story.Watch: https://www.netflix.com/title/80197526 Follow: @sexeducation
Unexpected (TLC): TLC’s unscripted original series follows five teenage couples and their families as they navigate the joys and challenges of pregnancy and parenthood. We’re proud to serve as the show's lead pro-social partner for the third consecutive season. We collaborated on discussion guides, fact sheets, and more to help audiences use the show as a jumping-off point to open up conversations about unplanned pregnancy and the power to decide their futures.Watch full episodes by downloading the TLC Go app or visiting: TLC.com/Unexpected. Follow and 'Like' the show on Facebook
Good Trouble (Freeform): From the creators of “The Fosters,” this spin-off series follows sisters Callie and Mariana as they begin their lives in LA as young adults. Mixed in with themes that range from civil rights to trans issues to workplace equity, romance, relationships, love, sex, heartbreak, and identity take center stage.Watch: https://freeform.go.com/shows/good-trouble Follow: @GoodTrouble
Grownish (Freeform): In this spin-off of “black-ish” (ABC), college student Zoey Johnson has a lot of firsts: first sex, first heartbreak, first roommates, first roommate drama…and faces the challenges of life on her own for the first time. Enthusiastic sober consent and the challenges of being in a “situationship” (somewhere between hooking up and an exclusive relationship) are some of the topics Zoey and her friends debate as they live through them.Watch: https://freeform.go.com/shows/grown-ish Follow: @grownish
Shrill (Hulu): Based on Lindy West’s acclaimed book, Shrill brings to life, “Annie, a fat young woman who wants to change her life — but not her body. Annie is trying to start her career while juggling bad boyfriends, a sick parent, and a perfectionist boss.” An unplanned pregnancy in the first episode leads Annie on a course to find the power to decide her future in all areas of her life.Watch: https://www.hulu.com/series/shrill-54eab813-3a9b-496d-9d7e-908597ad8d1a Follow: @Hulu
“Ask Dr. Ruth” (Hulu): Ok, this is a documentary film, not a TV show. But it’s a wonderful depiction of the life and life-changing work of Dr. Ruth Westheimer—the world-famous sex therapist who pioneered open conversations about sex and changed the culture. The film is a timeless reminder that all people need and deserve someone they can trust to talk to openly and without shame.Watch: https://www.hulu.com/movie/ask-dr-ruth-9dab1fcf-8f61-49f6-a2f1-531000a383e5 Follow: @Hulu
We’re proud to support and collaborate with these shows and other pop culture leaders in telling stories that inform and inspire audiences on topics related to reproductive health. The TV Academy has recognized the role these partnerships have played in helping to drive teen and unplanned pregnancy to historic lows.
As Let’s Talk Month – and the fall TV premieres --get under way in October, we’ll be back with more binge-worthy suggestions.
Until then, follow us at @PowerToDecide, follow these shows, and join the conversation with #TalkingIsPower.
Mon, 23 Sep 2019 14:56:52 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/and-winnerResearch Shows Public Support for TPP and PREPhttps://powertodecide.org/news/research-shows-public-support-for-tpp-and-prep
A growing body of literature shows that the majority of the general public supports sex education and federally funded teen pregnancy prevention programs, such as the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program and the Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP). Both these funding streams support programs that are proven to help teens delay sex, improve contraceptive use, and/or prevent pregnancy.
The most recent research, “Support for sex education and teenage pregnancy prevention programmes in the USA,” was recently published in the Journal of Sex Education and is based on a survey conducted for Planned Parenthood. This new study makes clear that there is strong support for sex education in middle and high school that includes support for discussions of abstinence, contraception, and STIs. It is worth noting that there is no difference between Republicans and Democrats on what young people should be taught. The authors write, “a majority of both Republicans and Democrats want each of the topics included in both middle school and high school, with the exception of the topic of sexual orientation.”
Our January 2017, and November 2018, editions of our Survey Says series both showed similar results. Among the relevant results:
85% of all adults’ favor maintaining federal funding for the TPP Program and PREP, including 89% of Democrats and 75% of Republicans.
The majority of adults, including 91% of Democrats and 66% of Republicans, believe that birth control should be considered a basic part of women’s health care.
These programs provide critical support so public backing for them is heartening. However, in uncertain political times this support may not be enough. The Administration has tried repeatedly to defund the TPP program, and when that failed, to shift the emphasis of the program away from evidence and towards ideology.
We encourage you to reach out and tell your Senators to fully fund the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program and the Title X family Planning Program, and support the language offered by the House that ensures these programs are implemented as they traditionally have been. Urge your Senators to support continued funding for the TPP Program and to also protect the program’s integrity. By doing so, you will help ensure young people who need it most can get the high quality, evidence-based sexual health education and skills they need to pursue the future they want.Thu, 19 Sep 2019 10:49:48 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/research-shows-public-support-for-tpp-and-prepThe Devastating Impact of the Domestic Gag Rule https://powertodecide.org/news/devastating-impact-domestic-gag-rule
The Trump Administration’s recent enforcement of the Title X “domestic gag rule” is nothing short of catastrophic for people living on limited incomes. For nearly fifty years, people with limited means have relied on health clinics supported by Title X funds for affordable birth control, gynecological exams, and testing for sexually transmitted infections. Before the domestic gag rule took effect, roughly 4 million people of low income could access no and low-cost contraception as well as related services because of Title X funding. The domestic gag rule prohibits clinics that receive funds to support the aforementioned services from providing information about and referrals for abortion services on the premises, even with other funds. Notably, Title X funds have never been used to support abortion services.
Citing their belief that they cannot provide ethical and quality care under the new rules, clinics in 325 counties spanning 33 states have already opted out of the Title X Program, meaning that millions of people will not have affordable access to quality family planning services they need and deserve. Today, September 18, 2019, is the deadline by which providers demonstrate compliance with these changes. We anticipate this mass exodus from the program to continue after today and we know that the consequent damage to the safety net will be long term. As a result of this rule, the number of people who live in counties without a single clinic offering the full range of birth control methods could triple.
The real impact is on the millions of people, and in particular low-income women, who have long relied on these services for their health care. It means that people who have long relied on the program may have higher out of pocket costs for health care and contraception because clinics will no longer have funds to support them. People already counting every penny may need to travel longer distances to clinics offering services, take more time off work, or pay for additional childcare costs.
Already, there are stories of the gag rule resulting in higher fees, which force people who don’t have the means to pay to opt out of care. When people cannot afford a service, they will often forgo things such as diagnostic testing and contraceptive care it in favor of paying for something they deem more of a necessity. Without access to these critical preventive services, people are left vulnerable to experiencing an unplanned pregnancy or not getting early diagnoses or treatment for life and death conditions.
Though some health centers are in the position to continue to serve people at no or low cost in the short run, many are not. The loss of these vital funds has already forced many of these health centers to charge people significantly more for services or cut back on the services they offer. And that means that millions of people are not getting the critical are they need and deserve.
These are troubling times for women’s reproductive health. However, with your support we can help women continue to access the health care they need and deserve. BCBenefits is our contraceptive access fund. It helps women of low income overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers in access to contraception such as transportation and the cost of the contraceptive care itself. Please take a moment to visit us and learn how you can help us support women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.Wed, 18 Sep 2019 10:00:36 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/devastating-impact-domestic-gag-ruleTreating PCOS With Hormonal Birth Controlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/treating-pcos-hormonal-birth-control
My freshman year of college I missed two weeks of school consecutively due to an unending period. I thank God for my roommate who brought me food because I could not even get out of bed. I finally was able to see a doctor who had some experience with these symptoms and was diagnosed with PCOS. It took until 2015 to find something that worked for me, which ended up being the pill—Kiersten, La Plata, MD
I love my birth control because it keeps my PCOS in check so that I’m not immobilized in bed 7 days out of the month. —JeNeen, Los Angeles, California
I was diagnosed with PCOS about 4 years ago and prescribed birth control to control my hormone levels so that I can have a higher chance of fertility later in life if I ever wanted to have a child.—Sophia, Washington, DC
Even for those with manageable periods, it’s often the worst time of the month with annoying cramping, bloating, nausea, or diarrhea. For those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a period is worse than annoying, it’s severely painful. In honor of PCOS Awareness Month this September, we look into how taking birth control can help control the symptoms of PCOS.
While we don’t know the exact cause of PCOS, we do know that it’s common hormonal imbalance that causes multiple cysts to develop on the ovaries and can also cause heavy, irregular, or painful periods. Because the ovarian cysts interfere with the normal menstrual cycle, people with PCOS may not ovulate (release an egg) from their ovary each month resulting in irregular cycles, sporadic or extra long periods. Because of the hormone imbalance, people may also experience weight gain, acne, skin tags, thinning hair on their heads, or excess body hair. Of course, not everyone has all of these symptoms, and the severity of them can vary from person to person. But, when left untreated, PCOS leaves people at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes, infertility, high blood pressure, ovarian cancer, and heart disease.
For those who do not want to become pregnant, treating PCOS often involves taking hormonal birth control to manage the symptoms of PCOS, like painful periods, acne, and excess body hair. The pill, the patch, and the ring work by preventing ovulation which reduces the number of cysts on the ovary.
Types of contraception that reduce the overall number of periods for months or even years at a time can reduce period related symptoms of PCOS. Many who use a hormonal IUD stop getting periods all together after one year of use. Similarly, around half of all who use the shot stop getting their periods after one year.
Hormonal IUDs, the implant, the shot, the pill, the patch, and the ring can all make periods lighter because these birth control methods make the lining of the uterus thinner—a thinner uterine lining has less tissue to shed, resulting in lighter periods. All types of hormonal birth control reduce pain better than over-the-counter medication.
Taking the pill is the most common way that those who do not want to become pregnant but have PCOS to manage their non-period related symptoms. In addition to lighter or fewer periods, the hormones in pill can also reduce hair growth and acne breakouts. Most who use the pill to treat their PCOS a combination pill, containing estrogen and progestin, is the best choice. The hormones in this type of pill work to prevent ovulation, decrease ovarian cysts, and decrease the hormone related side effects from PCOS. If someone is unable to take estrogen, progestin-only pills may also improve symptoms of PCOS.
Because the severity of PCOS can vary from person to person, treatment plans are highly individual, it’s very important to talk to a provider about all the potential treatment options. And while talking to a provider, remember to consider factors such as cost, desire to have children in the future, regular vs. irregular bleeding, effectiveness at preventing pregnancy, and privacy.
Finding “your” method isn’t a one-time decision. As our lives change, the ideal method for us may change too. We encourage you to go on a journey to find a method that works for you right now. We want everyone to love their birth control so much that they shout, “Thanks, birth control!”
Check out our birth control explorer, learn more about the various methods, and find a clinic near you to talk to a provider about which method would work best for your right now. And if you have PCOS or have already been on a journey to find the best form of birth control for you, share your story!Mon, 16 Sep 2019 11:16:04 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/treating-pcos-hormonal-birth-controlSeptember 2019 Power Player https://powertodecide.org/news/september-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Brendan Levy, MD
Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, HeyDoctor
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
The most important thing is providing people with truly accessible high-quality health care and information — so they can make the best decisions for themselves regarding pregnancy and family planning. There are many great contraceptive options available today, and one of the most valuable things we can do as medical professionals is to help educate young people about their choices so they can pick the option that best meets their needs and is safe.
When we created HeyDoctor, one of our main goals was ensuring people had convenient access to a qualified health care provider to help them make the best decisions for themselves, and I think our birth control service is a flagship service in that regard. Patients can use our service and chat with a doctor or nurse. Then we can help them determine the best choice for them and also make sure the prescriptions are sent to the most convenient place for the patient, whether that is a local pharmacy or a mail order service.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
My overarching mission as a doctor has been to build a health care system that can actually deliver universal access to primary health care. I started out as a family medicine doctor in the traditional health system - but that same system got in the way of my ability to care for patients. I found that it was too expensive for my patients that needed it most, too difficult to access, and it wasn’t growing or changing to attempt to solve these society wide problems. Although American health care has great parts and many amazing people - as a system it is badly broken, and I want to be part of fixing it.
Every day at HeyDoctor I get to work on designing new ways of providing health care that can help people proactively, preventatively, and when they need it. Using the best of modern technology and combining it with traditional primary care — I believe we can go a long way to help make this vision of simpler more humanistic health care system a reality.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Health care in America is a wildly complicated industry with many stakeholders - make peace with the complexity initially and then figure out how to make some small part of it less complicated. Then leverage that success to expand the problems you are solving. The system is massive, and we cannot fix it overnight — but we will fix it.
And remember while working to change health care to always think about what the ideal patient experience would be for yourself or the people your care about. If you can maintain that clear vision as a guiding star, it is easier to figure out the next steps you should take.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Everyone should care because right now that access can vary widely depending on where you are living in the United States, your wealth, and other factors. And the decision to have a child is one of the most important choices imaginable, both for that woman and for our society -- and we should all strive to make sure, no matter who you are or where you live, you are empowered to make a decision that is right for your life.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
We are proud sponsors of the Power to Decide and BCBenefits, which are helping to make it easier for women to access information and be prescribed contraception. I am deeply grateful for the work Power to Decide does to champion and advocate for access to healthcare and information.Tue, 10 Sep 2019 09:27:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/september-2019-power-player5 Latinas Saying #ThxBirthControlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-latinas-saying-thxbirthcontrol
During Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) we celebrate the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Though Latinas—and Latinx people—have had a complicated relationship with birth control, they continue to rely on methods like the pill and to start families if and when they desire. It was reported in a Cambridge study that 74% of US-born Latinas (and 62% of foreign-born Latinas) believe birth control should be safe and accessible. Hispanic Heritage Month provides the unique opportunity to recognize the many contributions Hispanic Americans have made in order to help ensure all women could have the power to decide their futures.
Rep. Veronica Escobar
Representative Veronica Escobar is from El Paso, Texas where her parents had a dairy farm. Escobar is the first woman to represent the 16th District of Texas. And together she and Rep. Sylvia Garcia are the joint-first Latina Texans elected to the House of Representatives. Escobar says, “I fundamentally believe reproductive freedom means having the option to all reproductive health care options.”
Lydia Tavarez
Lydia Tavarez is a medical assistant for an orthopedic surgeon at Houston Methodist Hospital. She comes from a very large family; her mother has 12 siblings and her father five. She and her husband have nine children. “Most Hispanics come from big families," she said. "I think having a large family has made me a people person who loves to take care of people.” But Tavarez encourages young women to “be aware of all forms of birth control and practice safe sex at all times.”
Nikki Bella
Retired professional wrestler Nikki Bella broke barriers for both women and Latinos in WWE. Though she has retired, Bella still holds the record for longest reign as a WWE Divas Champion. Born in California and raised in Arizona, she comes from Mexican descent. "I'm so proud to be a Latina," Bella said. "Growing up and being Latina and growing up with my father and getting to do a lot of the Hispanic traditions, I loved it.” Bella says her 15-month-old niece, Birdie, has been "the best form of birth control," as she continues to contemplate having children right now. “Here I was dying to be a mom. Now I want to push it back. Can my clock tick until my 40s?"
Rep. Sylvia Garcia
A native Texan from San Diego, Representative Sylvia Garcia attended Texas Woman’s University and Texas Southern University. Alongside Rep. Escobar she is the joint-first Latina to be elected from Texas to the House of Representatives. “A woman’s choice should be between her and her doctor, not a choice made by politicians.” Rep. Garcia has long advocated for women. She supports expanded abortion access and quality women’s health care.
Yasmine Winkler
Yasmine Winkler is the CEO of the central region for the Medicaid business for UnitedHealthcare. She heads up a team focused on making sure that people using Medicare—often comprised of the most vulnerable populations—can overcome the many barriers to receiving care. “Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging for anyone,” Winkler says. “How can we make it easier to navigate so people have access to the services they need?”
Her work is especially important as 19.5 million women who are in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts—that is, they lack reasonable access in their county to a health center that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.Wed, 04 Sep 2019 10:50:15 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-latinas-saying-thxbirthcontrolAugust 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/august-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are six stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Shoring Up Reproductive Autonomy: Title X’s Foundational Role
This article gives a brief overview of the Title X program. It makes the case for the importance of the program while acknowledging that it is one piece of a larger picture for people’s ability to have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. The authors write, “Title X’s responsibility to promote reproductive autonomy must be upheld and expanded.”
Births in the United States, 2018
The CDC has released a data brief featuring 2018 birth data from the National Vitals Statistics System. Highlights of the report include: a 2% decline in the US fertility rate from 2017; a 7% decline in the teen birth rate from 2017 to 2018; an increase in the percentage of vaginal births after previous C-section in 2018; and an increase in the percentage of births delivered preterm and early term from 2017 to 2018.
Characteristics of immigrants obtaining abortions and comparison with US-born individuals
To fill a gap in existing data, this study pooled two national samples of people who obtained an abortion from 2008-2009 and 2013-2014. It found that most immigrants who obtained an abortion were in their 20s, were low-income, and had graduated from high school. In addition, 45% were uninsured.
Distance traveled to obtain clinical abortion care in the United States and reasons for clinic choice
We know that the further away a person is from an abortion facility the greater their out-of-pocket costs will be, and that they have a higher chance of delaying care and getting follow-up care at an emergency department. This study found that nearly one-fifth of people who had an abortion traveled more than 50 miles each way to do so and that distance was the most important determinant of which clinic they chose.
From Cervical Cap to Mobile App: Examining the Potential Reproductive Health Impacts of New Technologies
The authors of this article found that web- and app-based methods to obtain birth control reduce the geographic and logistical barriers for people living in rural areas and for low-income populations. But they caution that because these prescription services are not available to teens under 18, the impact on access for young people is likely to minimal. The authors also suggest that increased telemedicine use may reduce rates of screening for things such as intimate partner violence, STIs, and cervical cancer.
Contraceptive use by women across different sexual orientation groups
Using data collected from more than 118,000 women, this study found that while some sexual minority groups such as bisexuals were more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to use any method of birth control, including LARCs, lesbians were least likely groups to use any method. The study authors suggest that many sexual minority patients would benefit from contraceptive counseling and that providers should offer counseling to all patients, regardless of sexual orientation.Fri, 30 Aug 2019 10:08:23 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/august-2019-power-updates-editionImplementing One Key Question in Kenosha, WIhttps://powertodecide.org/news/implementing-one-key-question-kenosha-wi
Power to Decide’s One Key Question® has an audacious goal: nothing short of transforming women’s health care. One Key Question® is a tool for health and social service providers that helps start a conversation about if and when women want to get pregnant and have a child. In Kenosha, Wisconsin the County Department of Human Services has implemented One Key Question®. Katie Hanks, MBA, Reimbursement Analyst, Kenosha County Department of Human Services, spoke about the program's growth and success in a recent interview.
What services do you provide to your clients, generally?
The Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) took on asking One Key Question® in coordination with the Public Health Department, who receives referrals from CCS. CCS is a recovery-based mental health program looking to help consumers with severe and persistent mental illness and/or alcohol and other drug abuse (AODA) issues function independently within the community.
Where are you implementing One Key Question®?
Within our CCS program only we have implemented One Key Question® at a county-wide level. This includes home visiting, office-based services, and services provided within the community.
Describe the patient/client population you serve with One Key Question®.
The CCS program provides services across ages, geographic area, and financial lifespan of county residents. One Key Question® is now par for the course of any women 15+ (with parental permission for those age 15-17) who are of childbearing age and capable of getting pregnant.
Describe how you implement One Key Question® at your site(s). What does it look like in practice?
We incorporated One Key Question® into our initial in-depth assessment, which must be updated every six months. At intake and then every six months afterwards every qualified participant is asked One Key Question®.
We even ask the question to those who aren’t qualified under One Key Question®! We don’t record it as part of the program, but because we thought it was important to make asking One Key Question® a part of the philosophy at CCS, we ask men as well. We have also asked women who couldn’t bear children though we never ask again after we learn about that they cannot have kids.
Does implementation look different than you originally envisioned? How has it changed/evolved in practice since you first started implementing?
Yes and no. What we didn’t envision in the beginning was asking One Key Question® of young people age 15-17. We created a consent form for parents to sign so we could ask minors. That was very important to us because we wanted to include them, but we didn’t want to ruin our relationship with their parents as it’s important for us to keep that relationship strong to provide them other services. Many parents gave permission, which was fantastic. We did have a percentage of parents who refused to give consent so, we then tried to have educational conversations with them before asking again for consent. Sometimes they were more receiving afterwards, but most of the time once it was no it was always no.
What we didn’t expect was that so many people would answer that they were already on a birth control that worked well for them. Many didn’t want to have another One Key Question® conversation after we initially asked them because they already felt like they were in a good place.
How are you measuring success?
We measure success in two ways. If consumers tell us they have no knowledge of contraception or preconception care and then they got on a birth control method after being asked One Key Question® that’s success. Success is also when clients tell us yes, they do want to get pregnant in the next year and we help them go about that process in the healthiest way.
What has been your biggest success?
Getting people on birth control who didn’t want to have children in the next year.
Describe any specific challenge(s) you had to overcome to implement One Key Question®. Were you successful in overcoming these challenges? If so, how did you overcome it?
The most difficult thing for us was getting results. We anticipated that none of our clients would have a doctor of their own that they see. We assumed that we’d refer everyone to the health department, with whom we have a good relationship. And then we could get results straight from the department.
But most people have a doctor already and so our only way of getting results is through their responses to us. We overcame this problem to the best of our ability by continuously asking consumers if they’d been to the doctor and had the One Key Question® conversation and getting us to answer them. We have to trust that the information they give us is truthful.
What advice would you give others who want to implement One Key Question®?
Get a great system that allows you to track the data.
Wed, 28 Aug 2019 10:15:22 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/implementing-one-key-question-kenosha-wiIs Your Sex Ed for All? 5 Ways to Tellhttps://powertodecide.org/news/your-sex-ed-for-all-5-ways-tell
The sex education I had my senior year of high school didn’t differ too much from the sex ed portrayed in Mean Girls—taught by a football coach, it was mostly wildly inaccurate, and I learned almost nothing from it. Like me, thousands of young people across the country get sex education that not only fails to prepare them for life but can also actively cause them harm. That’s why we need Sex Ed for All—sex ed that recognizes young people’s right to bodily autonomy and accurate sexual health information. Here are five ways to know if your sex ed is for everyone.
Helps young people avoid sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy.
Evidence-based sex education gives young people the tools to avoid STIs and pregnancy by teaching them about birth control and barrier methods in addition to the option to stay abstinent. Research shows that abstinence-only education does not cause young people to engage in abstinence behavior. In fact, young people in states with more abstinence-only education are actually more likely to become pregnant. On the other hand, studies have shown that sex education programs that include discussion of STI and pregnancy prevention methods in addition to abstinence reduce rates of STIs and unintended pregnancy among young people. Strong evidence has prompted organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists to recommend inclusion of these topics in sex education curricula.
Allows them to recognize sexual assault and abuse and to utilize consent.
Many young people are not able to recognize violations of consent because they have not had the opportunity to learn that they have a right to bodily autonomy. Young people who are raised as girls often receive social and media messaging telling them that they don’t have the option of saying no in a sexual situation. Sex education can serve to help young people learn how to practice asking for consent and understand what might constitute violating the consent of another person. Sex ed that includes discussion of consent, bodily autonomy, and self-determination prepares all young people for the sexual experiences they may encounter, and can ultimately help to combat rape culture.
Does not shame and further harm youth who have faced sexual abuse and assault.
Unfortunately, by the time young people receive sex ed in their schools, some have already faced sexual abuse and assault. Experts estimate that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys experience sexual abuse as children. Several studies have found that young people who identify as LGBTQ face even higher rates of sexual abuse during childhood than their cisgender and straight counterparts. Young people who have experienced sexual violence may already experience confusion and shame surrounding sexuality, so sex education that paints sex as dirty and sinful can only serve to cause further damage. Experts say that survivors need to consistently hear that they are not at fault for their abuse and that they deserve to have healthy sexual experiences.
Empowers queer and trans young people to make the best decisions about their sexual lives rather than forcing them into a heteronormative box.
Many sex education programs outright denounce non-heterosexual relationships, while others may less explicitly uphold straight, monogamous relationships between cisgender people as the expected norm and ignore LGBTQ people altogether. Sex ed must include discussion of gender identity, sexual orientation, positive representation of LGBTQ people and relationships, and safer sex behaviors for people of all bodies and identities. This is necessary to ensure that queer and trans young people have the information they need to live healthy lives.
Does not reinforce harmful gender stereotypes.
Sex education programs that perpetuate gender stereotypes only serve to harm young people. Some programs, for example, promote notions of feminine passivity and masculine sex drive and aggression. Endorsement of gender stereotypes only serve to interfere with young women’s sexual and bodily autonomy, harm the mental health of young men, and alienate non-binary young people. Teaching young people that they are not bound by societal stereotypes is critical to ensuring that they make the best decisions for their lives, regardless of their gender identities.
All young people deserve Sex Ed for All. But as of now, not many of them are able to receive it. That’s why supporting bills like the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act (REHYA) and the Youth Access to Sexual Health Services (YASHS) Act is so important. At the same time, it is imperative to maintain the far-reaching work that the evidence-based Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program has already been doing to ensure that youth in some of the most marginalized communities receive the vital information and skills they need to complete their education and pursue the future they want on their own terms. Click here to email your member of Congress to ensure this critical program continues to receive funding through 2020.
Angela Maske is the Summer 2019 Public Policy Intern for Power to Decide. She is attending Georgetown University where she’s working towards a degree in Global Health.
Tue, 27 Aug 2019 11:41:06 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/your-sex-ed-for-all-5-ways-tellConsent and Sex Edhttps://powertodecide.org/news/consent-and-sex-ed
Each stage of childhood and young adulthood provides parents, champions, and mentors with diverse opportunities to teach young people about consent. From talking to a toddler about borrowing toys to talking to a teen about all things sex, love, and relationships, conversations about consent (and love, sex, relationships, and birth control!) should begin during childhood and evolve as young people grow.
JAMA Pediatrics recently published an article backing us up. Researchers found that educating young people about sex didn’t change how old they are when they began having it. In fact, study results showed that when parents got involved early and talked often, their interventions had a stronger positive effect.
Fostering an open and honest relationship with your young person will help to ensure that they feel comfortable coming to you with their questions. Young people want and need their parents and the other adults who care about them to talk openly, honestly, and without judgment about all things sex, love, and relationships. To spark meaningful conversations with your teen we have a host of materials to get you started.
But these conversations shouldn’t be limited to the living room. We believe that all young people deserve access to quality sexual health information and services, and the sense of agency and opportunity necessary to determine and act upon what is best for them. We believe in sex ed for all.
In order to live life on their own terms, young people need to participate in discussion that includes consent along with other topics covered by sex education, like relationships, making decisions about sex, and protecting against pregnancy and STIs. This is especially true for young people in marginalized populations who have not been represented well in sex education—including communities of color, LGBTQ young people, immigrants, those with lower incomes, those living in rural areas, and those in foster care. We must work together to help them gain access to the information and care they need to ensure their lifelong sexual and reproductive health.
Currently, only eight states require discussions of consent as part of sex ed curriculum. Often these talks focus more on how students (predominantly young women) can avoid being assaulted or raped than a more integrated and proactive discussion that frames consent as a necessary life skill applied to more than simply sexual situations.
Sex education comes in many forms and from many sources. Comprehensive, positive, and proactive sex education that included consent would certainly have made a difference in my life, and the lives of the women I grew up alongside. Bringing up consent in age-appropriate ways early in a child’s life and continuing the conversation as they grow will help give young people a solid start toward living life on their own terms. Wed, 21 Aug 2019 10:16:51 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/consent-and-sex-edAugust 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/august-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
NIKKIA MCCLAIN
FOUNDER/CEO, TENE NICOLE MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
I am passionate about mentoring and educating young women because I can relate to them having been a teenage mother. In the past, I have devoted my time during the summer as a professor for both the WEEN (Women Entertainment Empowerment Network) Academy and E-School for Girls, an introduction to marketing and public relations.
Today, I’m even more passionate and intentional about being a mentor and work to encourage young girls and women to exceed in business while dealing with adversity.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I was a teenage mother of two before graduating high school but was determined to defy the odds and succeed. I earned a bachelor’s degree while juggling two jobs. I have since married, expanded my family, and decided to fully commit to my career by obtaining a master’s degree in Public Relations from George Washington University.
I recognized early on I was able to push forward in my personal growth based on the support I had received over the years from countless women in my life and, because of that, I want to be a pillar for other women. Due to that support, I was inspired to launch #SupportYourGirlfriends in 2017, a personal accomplishment which has allowed me to foster positive opportunities that elevate and lift women to their highest potential.
I meet those goals via two initiatives: 1) #SupportYourGirlfriends Getaway, an “all-expense-paid” trip to Ocho Rios, presented by Moon Palace Jamaica and 2) the Pow(H)er Awards Dinner, an annual evening dedicated to recognizing “Un-Apologetic” women in their respective field and a night of giving back.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
In my former career, I worked as a very successful real estate agent, in which I managed million-dollar properties. After several years of helping clients realize their real estate dreams, I knew I wanted to explore other opportunities that were aligned to my personal goals to pursue a career in marketing and public relations — a very bold decision given I had no background in the two fields. So, I took a leap of faith and established my marketing and public relations firm, TENÉ NÍCOLE.
My advice to those looking to pivot from one field to another is not to be afraid to fail because you may very well land in your purpose! Allow the universe to respond to your vision. It happened for me and can happen for you!
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
It’s vital that women of all cultures, backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses have fair and equal access to resources they need to first and foremost, maintain and live a safe and healthy life, reproductively, physically, and emotionally.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
My firm hosted our 2nd Annual Pow(H)er Awards on "Thanks, Birth Control" Day (November 13, 2018), in partnership with Power to Decide to raise awareness about its mission and purpose, and elevate the message among attendees via social media. We were elated to have the Power to Decide organization as a significant component of the evening and looking forward to our growing relationship and once again expanding their messaging and initiatives during our upcoming 3rd Annual Awards, November 13, 2019.
Tue, 20 Aug 2019 13:11:34 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/august-2019-power-playerIndigenous Advocates Welcome A Comprehensive Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program Proven to Work in Native American Communities https://powertodecide.org/news/indigenous-advocates-welcome-comprehensive-teen-pregnancy-prevention-program-proven-work
Nationally, teen pregnancy rates have declined by 67% since peaking in 1991. Yet significant disparities remain. Native American teens have the highest teen birth rate of any U.S. group, and 4 in 10 Native American women begin childbearing in adolescence.
Indigenous reproductive health advocates around the country are working to address these disparities. They are giving young Native people the means to decide their future using Respecting the Circle of Life, a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health program developed by the Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health, in collaboration with tribal partners. Respecting the Circle of Life, which serves youth between the ages of 11-19, is the only teen pregnancy prevention program proven to work in Native American communities.
Respecting the Circle of Life is now being implemented in settings as diverse as rural Arizona, on the Navajo Nation and—starting this summer—the urban industrial core of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“One of my main goals is to de-stigmatize sex and conversations around sex,” said Delilah Robb, a community health educator at the Indian Health Board in Minneapolis and member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians (pictured below). “It’s important that the youth get this information from professionals so they can take control of their body and their health.”
Ms. Robb and another indigenous reproductive health advocate, Logan Tootle, of the Cherokee Nation, jointly hosted a Respecting the Circle of Life camp for young people this past July at the Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center (MIWRC). MIWRC serves people living in some of Minneapolis’s poorest neighborhoods like Little Earth, a 9.4-acre, 212-unit HUD-subsidized housing complex home to nearly 1,000 people from 32 tribes.
Bringing a culturally tailored teen pregnancy prevention programs to urban Indians is vital because 7 in 10 American Indian and Alaska Native peoples now live in metropolitan areas. Phillips, Minneapolis, where MIWRC is based, is home to one of the largest urban Native American populations in the U.S.
“It’s important for individuals in Native communities to begin the conversation around STIs, HIV, and teen pregnancy prevention,” said educator Angelita Lee, who helped train 17 professionals to deliver Respecting the Circle of Life in Minneapolis earlier this year. “With Respecting the Circle of Life, we can make sure our Native youth are staying healthy and protecting themselves”
Ms. Lee’s teaching captivated those in her training workshop, including representatives of tribes such as Mille Lacs, White Earth, Prairie Island, Red Lake, as well as other Native American organizations such as Indian Health Board of Minneapolis, American Indian Family Center, Division of Indian Work, and Indigenous Peoples Task Force.
How Respecting the Circle of Life is Taught
Following the training by Ms. Lee, Ms. Tootle and Ms. Robb held their teen pregnancy prevention camp at the MIWRC. The eight-day camp, delivered in half-day sessions, offered participants plenty of cultural activities: drumming, lacrosse, beadwork, dreamcatcher-making, round dance, and presentations by elders on traditional medicine. Evaluations following the camp showed that the youth responded well these cultural activities.
“We wanted to share traditions, stories, and practices with youth,” said Ms. Robb. “When you are grounded in your culture you have a sense of self and that is a protective factor—when you feel more involved in a community you aren’t as vulnerable.”
“There aren’t many American Indian-specific curriculums out there,” added Ms. Tootle, pictured below. “Before we found Respecting the Circle of Life, we didn’t have anything comprehensive, with enough information on contraceptives, that is evidence-based,” she said.
How Communities Access Respecting the Circle of Life
Starting this summer, the Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health is disseminating Respecting the Circle of Life through ETR, a nonprofit organization dedicating to scaling science-based solutions in sexual and reproductive health and other areas. Communities can purchase the program through ETR’s catalog, which only includes programs with proven evidence. Respecting the Circle of Life is the only evidence-based program in ETR’s catalog developed specifically for Native communities.
A starter kit is $569—which will cover everything needed for two facilitators to deliver Respecting the Circle of Life to 12 youth and 12 parents or trusted adults. As part of the kit, the Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health created a comprehensive implementation guide including recruitment materials, camp schedules, and a month-by-month planning guide.
To bring RCL to your community, contact Lauren Tingey, PhD, Associate Director of the Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health, email ltingey1@jhu.edu.
By Rose Weeks, Director of Communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health, with photos by Ed Cunicelli.Thu, 15 Aug 2019 09:49:37 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/indigenous-advocates-welcome-comprehensive-teen-pregnancy-prevention-program-proven-workPill Club + Power to Decide = Access to EChttps://powertodecide.org/news/pill-club-power-decide-access-ec
Last week we partnered with Pill Club, the online birth control delivery and prescription service, to give out free emergency contraception (EC). There was no catch. We didn’t require anyone to tell us why they wanted it. They didn’t even need to get a prescription or talk to a doctor. In less than 24 hours 5,000 people who needed it claimed their free EC, which will soon ship directly to their front doors!
An unqualified success, we’re proud to have partnered with Pill Club. However, the speed with which people claimed all 5,000 packages only highlights the need for better contraceptive access. More than 19.5 million women live in contraceptive deserts, counties without reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods. Also, shockingly, an estimated 11.2 million women age 19-64 lack access to any form of health insurance, and therefore cannot receive no- or low-cost contraception.
To help us in our efforts to ensure that women across the country get the care and access they deserve, Pill Club is also matching donations to our organization up to a total of $10,000 to support BCBenefits, our contraceptive access fund. BCBenefits supports women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. The fund helps low income women overcome some of the most commonly-faced barriers in access to contraception, such as transportation and the direct cost of contraception.
Since launching nationally in April 2019, BCBenefits has helped more than 750 people receive a year’s worth of birth control for free. You too can help remove the barriers a woman faces in accessing the birth control method right for her so that she can live life on her own terms by donating today.Wed, 14 Aug 2019 09:35:39 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/pill-club-power-decide-access-ecSummer of Self-Lovehttps://powertodecide.org/news/summer-self-love
As temperatures have risen and stayed high across the country and we all do our best to minimize the sweat, we hope that you’ve practiced some self-love this summer! Self-love looks different for everyone but is essential for all of us. Something simple like a bath bomb and a glass of wine or an extra-long phone call to a long-distance friend works for some. For others self-love can involve taking a much-needed vacation or disconnecting from technology for an entire weekend. No matter what it looks like for you, take time for yourself because when you give your body and mind the care they need, you’ll be rewarded.
When thinking about how to practice self-love do you think about your birth control? It might not seem obvious, but the kind of birth control you use can impact your life in a lot of ways. Forgetting to take your pill or replace your patch can leave you as frazzled and stressed as not taking time to unwind and care for yourself. Everyone deserves to love their birth control, and everyone deserves birth control that loves them as much as they love themselves.
But finding “your” method isn’t a one-time thing. As we grow and our lives change, the ideal method for us will change too. We encourage you to go on a journey to find a method that works for you right now. We want everyone to love their birth control so much that they shout, “Thanks, birth control!”
For people in their early twenties busy with work or school, an IUD or implant, which are both examples of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) may be a good fit. These methods don’t require day-to-day maintenance; once they’re placed, you’re good to go. And just like the name suggests, they’re long lasting. IUDs effectively prevent pregnancy for between three and twelve years, depending on which kind you get, and implants work for up to four years. LARCs allow young people to go about their lives without needing to think about their birth control method. And they don’t affect future fertility.
Getting older and settling down means that many people want to start (or grow!) their family. Whether a couple wants to have a baby but isn’t ready quite yet or already has a child or two and wants to wait a little while before adding another, condoms, birth control pills, and the ring are just three methods that may be a good fit.
Not all life changes that require a different birth control method are massive either. For some, it may be that they like using the pill simply because in the summer they want to skip their period to better enjoy the beach, but for a variety of reasons they prefer to have their period the rest of the year.
Check out our birth control explorer, learn more about the various methods, and find a clinic near you to talk to a provider about which method would work best for your right now. And if you’re happy with your current method, tell us why!Mon, 05 Aug 2019 10:35:37 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/summer-self-loveJuly 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/july-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are seven stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Implicit Bias and Contraceptive Counseling
Unfortunately, race/ethnicity continues to be one of the primary reasons for unequal treatment in this country. In the health care setting, provider bias has been linked to this disparity. While conscious bias has been previously studied among health care provider, this article explores unconscious bias to determine if it exists and what, if any, relationship it has with contraceptive counseling.
Sexual Consent in K–12 Sex Education
This study found that only two of the 18 states reviewed explicitly mention sexual consent in their K-12 health education standards. The authors recommend states explicitly include consent within their curriculum and emphasize the nuance of consent and communication prior to sexual debut.
Barriers to Care Experienced by Women in the United States
This infographic visually shows how women incur more health care costs than men. Though they have lower uninsured rate than men, they are more likely to skip tests or treatments because of cost, and younger women are even more likely to report not having a regular provider.
State abortion restrictions and the new Supreme Court
The authors summarize current US abortion restrictions and argue that while a complete reversal of Roe v. Wade is unlikely, future Supreme Court rulings could uphold state-level efforts to restrict abortion access, which would disproportionately affect disadvantaged and underserved women.
Abortion Rights in Peril — What Clinicians Need to Know
This article summarizes the state of abortion access in the United States and outlines the hurdles to expanding access further. The author summarizes that, “believing in your patients’ rights to maintain their bodily autonomy and dignity and to determine their own lives and futures requires supporting the right to abortion.”
Key Factors Influencing Comfort in Delivering and Receiving Sexual Health Education
Researchers interviewed both middle school students and health teachers to examine their comfort with delivering and receiving sexual health education. This paper details three key barriers identified by both groups: disruptive behavior, insufficient time, and lack of dedicated classrooms.
Adolescent Connectedness and Adult Health Outcomes
This paper examined the relationship between how connected young people feel and their future health outcomes. Findings show that young people who felt more connected at home and at school are more likely to have better mental and sexual health outcomes and less likely to experience negative outcomes such as violence or substance use as adults. Wed, 31 Jul 2019 10:16:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/july-2019-power-updates-editionA Tribute to Cindy Pellegrini-Johnsonhttps://powertodecide.org/news/tribute-cindy-pellegrini-johnson
Last week the world lost a wonderful person, Cindy Pellegrini-Johnson. Cindy was one of the most brilliant and effective advocates I’ve had the honor to work with, who was deeply committed to improving the lives of children and families. As Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Government Affairs at the March of Dimes, she worked tirelessly to advance federal policy on behalf of women and babies, as well as policies in all 50 states, DC, and Puerto Rico. Whether it was working tirelessly to address the Zika virus, or playing a key role in enacting the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act of 2018 to help prevent and treat preterm birth and the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act, Cindy was strategic and knew how to get things done.
Power to Decide was incredibly fortunate to have Cindy serve on our Public Policy Advisory Council for a number of years. We’re eternally grateful for her many excellent contributions. Whenever we’d send out a request for feedback, invite suggestions on strategy, or ask for help from our advisers, Cindy responded quickly and generously. Even when she was managing many priorities – both professional and her own health – she found a way to show up.
I also had the pleasure of co-chairing the March of Dimes Prematurity Campaign Collaborative Public Policy Workgroup with Cindy for nearly the past year, which aims to achieve equity and demonstrated improvements in preterm birth. There I learned even more about her encyclopedic knowledge of state policy and her extensive network of state contacts. Again, even under very difficult circumstances – as she went through the ups and downs in her battle with ovarian cancer -- Cindy was gracious, responsive, thoughtful, and focused.
Cindy has been a model for me and many others in so many ways. There’s no doubt she has contributed immeasurably to making life better for the families she advocated for, the colleagues she worked with, her large circle of friends, her community, and her own family who was so dear to her.
I last saw Cindy about a month ago, when she, her wonderful mother, daughter, and I took a walk in our neighborhood. Her garden was producing prolific mint, which she generously shared with me. I enjoyed that mint for quite a while - in summer salads and various drinks, and I thought fondly of Cindy each time. It was refreshing and made everything around it so much better -- just like Cindy.
Details about ways to honor Cindy can be found here.Mon, 29 Jul 2019 13:23:12 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/tribute-cindy-pellegrini-johnsonIncreasing Birth Control Access in Ohio through Public-Private, State-Local Partnershipshttps://powertodecide.org/news/increasing-birth-control-access-ohio-through-public-private-state-local-partnerships
At 106 years old, The Center for Community Solutions has served Cleveland in many ways. Founded during a time when a lack of social safety nets meant that many relied on the charity of strangers to feed, clothe, and house their families, Community Solutions aimed at first only to better coordinate the efforts of disconnected charities across the City of Cleveland. Only a few years later, it broadened its scope to look at how best to care for older adults. During the Great Depression, the organization again expanded its focus to meet the health care needs of Clevelanders more broadly.
In the 1970s Community Solutions (then known as The Federation for Community Planning) entered the world of family planning as a neutral convener for the region’s Title X program. Hosting the program as a grantee for more than 30 years, we worked with many wonderful partners. But as times and problems change so too did our approach to solving them.
For the last 8 years, Community Solutions has hosted the Collaborative for Comprehensive School-Aged Health, a community effort to move the needle on comprehensive sex education. Alongside 20 other organizations we look for ways to improve access to medically accurate, age appropriate and, inclusive sex education through capacity building and policy changes at local districts. Our Collaborative members come from diverse program and service backgrounds: youth-serving organizations, sex education facilitators, Title X providers, adolescent health clinicians, and health philanthropies, among others. In 2015, the Collaborative began sharing and discussing data coming out of projects in Colorado and Missouri – as well as more locally in Columbus, Ohio – to reduce barriers to offering long-active reversible contraception (LARC) to patients. The work fascinated us and so many questions arose from our initial meetings, we knew we had to explore them further. With clinical, communications, and policy components, and a myriad of amazing partners, we created and evaluated a pilot project ‒ Better Birth Control NEO ‒ to reduce clinical barriers to LARC method provision and help interested patients receive methods the same day as their appointment.
Through our Better Birth Control NEO clinical training partner, Upstream USA, we learned about Power to Decide’s WhoopsProof social marketing campaign, which was then in development. The campaign provides information about IUDs and the implant, and links local women to clinics that can provide additional information and access to their contraceptive method of choice. We had an opportunity to work with Power to Decide to pilot the campaign and we continue to use WhoopsProof creative locally. With the success of the pilot, the Ohio Department of Health adopted the WhoopsProof campaign too, so it is now available to Title X and other family planning partners in Ohio.
Our work to inform lawmakers and state policy has also seen success – at a time when the state was directing much needed attention to the high infant mortality rates. We have real champions in the state legislature who saw our collective work and helped expand it in Ohio. In 2017, the Ohio legislature passed SB332, a bi-partisan bill to implement a number of recommendations to reduce infant mortality across the state. Given the connections between maternal health, infant health, teen pregnancy, unintended pregnancy, and birth spacing, the bill included robust LARC provisions. For example: supporting in-patient LARC access at delivery; technical assistance for outpatient clinics to transform their practices to better serve patients interested in LARC methods; and a call for medical education that resulted in a wonderful clinical curriculum for clinicians who work with family planning patients.
We are currently co-convening another group, LARC Access Ohio, where practitioners from across the state can get in the weeds on how to best improve awareness of, and access to, LARC methods in their communities. Through LARC Access Ohio, practitioners support each other to incubate projects, e.g., for women who are in recovery from substance use disorders; communities that haven’t had providers trained to place LARC methods; organizations piloting One Key Question® or other national models; to improve birth spacing and/or teen pregnancy prevention; and the list goes on. The work is all about elevating and disseminating both best practice as well as what’s not working, so we can all make progress while not making the same mistakes.
Through public-private and state-local partnerships like the ones above we’ve achieved so much. It’s exciting to work with so many dedicated and diverse individuals and organizations who want to do better for Ohio women. We aim to continue to elevate the importance of family planning in Ohio, with a goal of continuing to improve maternal and infant health across our state.
Wed, 24 Jul 2019 10:09:32 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/increasing-birth-control-access-ohio-through-public-private-state-local-partnershipsJuly 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/july-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Joia Crear Perry, MD
President, National Birth Equity Collaborative
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
I have worked to provide education and policy recommendations to local, state and federal officials around the importance of high-quality sexual health information and contraceptive services are for young people to ensure they have what they need for whatever their reproductive choices are.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
While in college at Princeton, I became pregnant with my daughter. When I sought out a provider who was a Black woman, I could not find very many. And the few that I did find had long waits. I knew that there was a large desire not only by me, but others who looked like me to receive care from someone who looked like me. I had my second child during medical school prematurely. He was born weighing a little less than a pound. The stress of racism causes Black women, who like me, despite income, education, marital status, pregnancy intention, still have worse outcomes than their white counterparts.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Always look for systems answers. We have inequities in health not because people are broken or making bad choices. We have inequities because we have policies that are broken. We can fix them with things like free child care and access to a full range of reproductive services for all.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
When we allow anyone to be restricted from the information and care that they need for their reproductive decision making, it weakens all of our stability as a community and nation.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
We are working on a Patient Reported Experience Metric for Respectful Care in the United States along with the American College of OB/Gyn and the California Quality Care Collaborative.Wed, 10 Jul 2019 12:56:32 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/july-2019-power-playerJune 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/june-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are five stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Relationship Violence Typologies and Condom Use in Young Adult Dating Relationships
Research has shown there are many reasons why an individual may choose to use or not use condoms during sex. One reason that is less understood is the role of intimate partner violence. This study highlights the importance of capturing relationship violence and perpetrator gender in national data sets, suggesting that the information could help to better inform prevention efforts and providers that support victims.
Sex and Education: Does Sexual Debut During Adolescence Lead to Poor Grades?
Research findings on the association between adolescent sexual debut and academic achievement in school have been inconsistent. Seeking to clarify, this study used data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth to assess this relationship. Results indicate that having an early first sexual experience was associated with a lower grade point average among minority adolescents.
A Qualitative Systematic Review of Women's Experiences Using Contraceptive Vaginal Rings
Vaginal rings are currently being developed to prevent HIV and STI transmission. However, we need a more complete understanding of women’s expectations about use and effectiveness. As a result of this review, the authors suggest future research is needed that asks both women and men about their experiences with the vaginal ring and patient-provider interaction around method choice.
Newly Released Resources for Healthcare Providers on Adolescent Sexual Health
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently released a number of resources to support providers as they improve awareness and increase information on adolescent sexual and reproduction health care. These resources cover recommended services, addressing clinical issues, and information on optimizing health and reducing risk taking behaviors.
Updated National and State Data Sheets
The Office of Adolescent Health has published updated data sheets on national and state measures of adolescent well-being. Key findings for 2017 include:
17% of high schools students reported seriously considering suicide.
41% of high school students reported they tried to quit using tobacco products in 2017.
54% of high school students reported having played on at least one sports team in the past year.
Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:43:24 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/june-2019-power-updates-editionWhy Birth Rates in the US are at a Historic Lowhttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-birth-rates-us-are-historic-low
Steady decline in US teen birth rate
National birth rates continue to trend downward, which has been consistent over last four years. According to provisional birth rate data for 2018 released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, last year witnessed a series of record lows, including the lowest number of births in 32 years, the lowest fertility rate among women age 14-44, and lowest fertility rate overall in the US. Birth rates declined for nearly all groups, including teens, but rose for women in their late 30s and early 40s which was consistent with 2017 data on maternal age.
Why are we seeing a decline?
The steady decline in birth rates and increase in average age of first birth are reflective of several contributing factors—both at the individual and structural level. Women are getting married later in life and seeking advanced degrees beyond high school. The average age of first marriage is 27.8 years for women and 29.8 years for men, approximately 6-7 years later for each as compared to age of first marriage in 1968 (men, 23.1 years and women, 20.8 years respectively). Structural factors including economic uncertainty and lingering aftereffects of the 2008 recession, lack of paid parental leave, excessive child care expenses, and high student loan debt may all play and contributing role in a young adult’s decision to delay pregnancy. Additionally, maternal mortality has been rising in the US, with rates higher than all other developed countries which may impact young women’s decisions to delay child birth—especially among women of color.
On a positive note, women have greater access to birth control at affordable prices than ever before and the national abortion rate declined 26% between 2006 and 2015, hitting the lowest level that the government has on record. Nearly 65% of women report now use a method of contraception, a remarkable increase from 61.1% between 2011-2015. Over the past decade, the number of women who report using long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods of birth control has increased. These include methods such as the IUD and implant. This is due in part to the passage of the ACA contraceptive coverage mandate in 2012, and more accessible and medically accurate resources such as Bedsider. This increase in access and affordability to the most effective contraceptive methods has given women more opportunities to not only delay child birth, but greater agency when it comes to planning for the future.
Looking ahead
In general, women are waiting until later in life to become pregnant. Now more than ever we want to ensure that all young people have the information, access, and opportunity to optimize their future and decide if and when to become a parent. While we have made great strides over the last decade, there is still work to be done. Notably, more than 19 million US women, many of whom live in rural areas, do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. They live in what we call contraceptive deserts. For young people who want to avoid pregnancy, living in a contraceptive desert creates a significant roadblock on the path to opportunity.
In our continuing mission to support these and all women we’ve launched BCBenefits, a contraceptive access fund to support women’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. We invite you to help reduce the barriers women face when accessing the birth control method right for them by donating today. And spread the word: the more people who know about BCBenefits–both women in need of assistance and people like you interested in helping them–the more we can create change. Let’s start a movement.
Thu, 20 Jun 2019 12:25:54 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-birth-rates-us-are-historic-lowImproving Access to and Demand for Birth Control in Kentuckyhttps://powertodecide.org/news/improving-access-and-demand-for-birth-control-kentucky
Though the teen birth rate in Kentucky declined 58% between 1991 and 2017, we still have the fourth highest rate in the country with 4,060 births in 2017. All of rural Kentucky is a contraceptive desert, 76 out of 120 counties in our state don’t even have an OBGYN, and nearly 96,000 women in live in a county without access to a single health center that provides the full range of methods. All these numbers are mirrored in the 47% of all pregnancies described by the women themselves as unplanned.
And these access issues are compounded by cultural taboos that say you’re not supposed to publicly talk about sex, birth control, or your body. Young Kentuckians are eager for the knowledge they need to make safe and responsible decisions around sex and birth control. But the responsibility to get educated should not rest just on young people’s shoulders. Nor do we think it should be found only in the doctor’s office. We believe there’s a gap between the two and we want to fill it.
That’s why eight years ago All Access EKY began bringing young women together to talk about their reproductive needs and the culture around reproductive health care. We found that they aren’t given a space to have that conversation elsewhere. We learned that we can’t answer the community’s needs or understand where the gaps are if we don’t talk to the community. We work with health care workers, policy advocates, community leaders, and with young people themselves towards a common goal of becoming a community of progress. Our stakeholders within the community help us to understand where the shortages are, where the gaps are, and where misinformation comes from.
We believe in first-voice storytelling as a powerful tool for community change. Every spring, summer, and fall we hire young people as interns for eight weeks and teach them the basics of digital media making. The multi-media they produce is about bridging gaps and connecting young people to the access they need for birth control. They transform their experiences, and the experiences of their peers and community members into meaningful documentary media. We then host workshops and film screenings for the media our fellows create. We go to colleges and into the community to screen and do Q&As.
We’ve worked one on one with around 700 young community members. We go to health fairs, video screenings, radio shows, a little of everything really. Unfortunately, it’s still typical for lot of parents to pass our table by saying, “We’re not stopping here. They’re too young to hear about birth control.” But at one event a man came up and said, “I have two daughters at home, they’ll be embarrassed, but can I take this [informational pamphlets] home so they can find it in their rooms tonight?” These moments show us change happening in real time and give us hope for the future of our young people.
Our fellows last spring did a piece about the need for trans health care and how doctors can help their trans/queer patients to feel safer. At one screening young men in the audience laughed at the story. But afterwards other young people talked about how multiple bodies need health care, not just super skinny people or white people, or straight people. It turns out there was a trans person in the room and we didn’t know, and a friend of theirs told us at the end of the event that they felt safer just hearing others talk about their situation.
Our work aims to decrease misconceptions around birth control, raise awareness by working with systems and providers, and increase regional funding to support contraceptive access. It’s an honor to be in a position to help young Kentuckians. We’re all passionate about giving these people the opportunity to break free of negative cycles that affect them, to give the option to choose their path, and make choices about their bodies through reproductive health care access.
Author bios
Kelsie Madden is a native of Eastern Kentucky and the All Access EKY Outreach Director. She devotes her time to advocating for equity and health justice in Eastern Kentucky. With a degree in Public Health from the University of Kentucky, Madden campaigns for accessibility to the full range of contraceptive methods in Eastern Kentucky regions, allowing its residents the power to make choices about their health and their future.
Marcie Crim is Executive Director of Kentucky Health Justice Network, a state-wide Reproductive Justice organization that works to provide access to abortion, gender affirming healthcare for trans and non-binary people, and increase access to contraception in rural communities. She comes to KHJN from Kentucky Educational Television, where she served as the Director of Marketing and Publications. A native of Lexington, KY, Crim builds support and resources to expand the reach of KHJN’s programs and center the voices and experiences of Kentuckians who are most impacted by reproductive, sexual, and gender injustices.
A daughter of a middle school teacher and coal truck driver, Willa Johnson is from Letcher County, KY and is the Director of the Appalachian Media Institute. She has served as an Appalachian Transition Fellow, is a co-founder of the Stay Together Appalachian Youth Project, and is a licensed foster & adoptive parent. Willa has worked for the Kentucky Valley Educational Cooperative Community Engagement team where she helped to create a program to train teachers and students to use multimedia tools to tell their own stories about their schools and communities.
Mon, 17 Jun 2019 10:30:03 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/improving-access-and-demand-for-birth-control-kentuckySharing the Responsibility of Family Planninghttps://powertodecide.org/news/sharing-responsibility-family-planning
Deciding if, when, and under what circumstances to become a parent is one of the most importance choices you can make as an individual. For nearly 60 years, men and women have had the opportunity to decide when to embrace parenthood thanks to the legality and growing availability of birth control. Although contraception has opened up new doors and opportunities for millions of men and women, by and large, women are primarily burdened with the task of family planning. While several methods of birth control allow men to take ownership (i.e., condoms, natural family planning, and vasectomy) the majority of methods are dependent on women not only in order to use, but to use most effectively.
In light of Father’s Day, we took a look at the research around attitudes towards male contraceptive pills. In recent years, there has been more research into the promise of male birth control methods including male versions of the pill, non-surgical vasectomies, and a daily topical gel containing testosterone and progestin., However, we still do not have as much insight into attitudes towards male contraceptive methods. To better understand how men and women view male forms of contraception, researchers drew on a sample of men and women to investigate their attitudes towards male contraceptive pills.
In their study, the authors identified several factors that were significant predictors of attitudes towards male birth control. They found that gender played a factor with women more likely to possess favorable attitudes to the idea of the pill for men relative to their male counterparts. Additionally, when it came to levels of trust in men’s effective use of the pill, the findings revealed that men and women who believed that men could effectively use oral contraceptives had more positive attitudes. Moreover, the researchers found that type of relationship participants are in has a significant impact on attitudes towards male oral contraceptives. Both men and women who reported being in committed relationships had more positive attitudes towards the male pill than individuals who were in casual relationships.
What this study shows is that although women have doubts regarding men’s ability to effectively use an oral contraceptive, this doubt does not impact their overall favorable attitudes towards male contraception. This finding reaffirms the idea that women are increasingly happy to share family planning duties and positively embrace the idea of males more readily taking charge of their fertility. Thu, 13 Jun 2019 11:09:31 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/sharing-responsibility-family-planning5 Ways to be a Powerful Mentorhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-ways-be-powerful-mentor
In the world of popular culture, the female boss is usually seen with harsh qualities that enforces the ‘mean’ boss stereotype. The Bold Type changes things up portraying the female boss, Jacqueline, as an empowering, strong, friendly, and inspiring figure who guides 20-something Jane and the other young women magazine staffers in their careers and life. Jacqueline is the type of person that every young person deserves to have at work, at school, or in their everyday life.
After being a fan of The Bold Type for the last three seasons, it made me think of what Jacqueline teaches us about mentorship whether you’re a supervisor, parent, friend, family member, or mentor yourself. If you want to be a truly effective mentor to a younger person in your life, here are 5 tips from watching The Bold Type’s Jacqueline Carlyle:
Keep an Open Door: Some questions like, “Am I a burden?” "Are they too busy to listen to me?” “What if what I say comes back against me?” run through young people’s minds before they reach out to their mentor, especially if their mentor works in the same company. Make sure that you have an open-door policy and that your young person understands that no matter what they can come to you and you will always be there.
Jacqueline’s door, literally and figuratively, has always been open. One of the main characters, Jane, often runs into Jacqueline’s office looking for guidance. No matter how busy Jacqueline is, she welcomes her younger staffers in, even to her home.
Be an Active Listener: It’s easy for someone to sit and “listen” to you talk for 20 minutes, but it’s another thing for a mentor to actively listen. Young people can tell the difference and if their mentor is not actively listening, chances are the young person will leave feeling like they gained nothing out of that encounter and not feel very good about themselves or the situation they came to speak to you about. Active listening has seven critical steps according to Power to Decide: be attentive, ask open-ended questions, ask probing question, request clarification, paraphrase, be attuned to an reflect feelings, and summarize. Try it out!
Jacqueline always asks her up-and-coming magazine colleagues questions to allow them to reflect on what they’re feeling, she lends a helping hand when she can, and always lets them know that she is there for them.
Walk the walk: It’s easy to give advice and guidance to the young person in your life, but not so easy to take that advice yourself. It’s important that you set an example for the young person in your life, so they can not only hear what you’re telling them, but also see how you live out what you’re preaching. I know if I get advice but then see that person do the opposite themselves leads me to doubt my own abilities to succeed by using their advice, and even to doubt how much they believe in their own advice.
Jacqueline does what is right no matter what. She is not afraid to stand-up for what she believes in, even if that means it will cost her professionally. In everything Jacqueline does in the show, she leads by example.
Be Honest: Sugar coating advice is never a good idea. It is best to be honest and truthful with the young person in your life, even though they may not want to hear it. I promise that in the aftermath they will be grateful that you were honest with them instead just telling them what they want to hear. The best advice I have gotten, whether that was about my career, academic, or personal life was always a hard pill to swallow, but afterwards I appreciated hearing those words so much. I stand by tough love.
Jacqueline is not afraid to tell the girls if they’ve messed up because she knows that each mistake and failure is a lessoned learned. Jacqueline makes sure that the girls learn from their mistakes and makes them stronger from it. She doesn’t shame them for making mistakes. She helps them see how to solve problems instead.
Be Empowering: Lifting the young person in your life up to be the best possible version of themselves can be hard. Many things in life can chip away at a young person’s self-confidence. When they face a hurdle, along with following the four ways above, empowering them is the cherry on top. Lifting other women up is so inspiring and probably the most powerful thing you can do for a young person in your life.
Everyone can learn a thing or two from Jacqueline, but you don’t have to be a supervisor to be a mentor! Anyone can be a mentor to a younger person in their life, even millennials! I would like to say thank you to The Bold Type for portraying a character that embodies what it truly means to be a powerful mentor.
Tue, 11 Jun 2019 13:00:08 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-ways-be-powerful-mentorA Migraine is More Than Just A Headachehttps://powertodecide.org/news/migraine-more-just-headache
I’ve had migraines for as long as I can remember. In elementary school they sent me to the nurse’s office with tears in my eyes from the pain. In high school I had to leave classes early because I couldn’t concentrate or stand the light and sound. The number of times I’ve had to cancel plans with friends and family, leave work early, or leave class just to lay in a quiet, dark room until my medicine worked its magic, add up to more than I can remember.
I started birth control in high school because the migraines I got around my menstrual cycle were excruciating. I’m talking about throwing up at least 2 times because of the pain, one dose of medicine not doing the trick, and in worst-case scenarios, having to be taken to the headache clinic to be hooked up to an IV for an hour or more. An A student, involved in many school activities, and a dancer at a local studio; I couldn’t take it anymore. I started hormonal birth control pill, Apri, on the recommendation from my doctor that it might help with my migraines. While they didn’t go away after starting birth control, the severity of them lessened. I still get a bad one every now and then, but I survive.
June is Migraine and Headache Awareness Month, a month dedicated to speaking up about migraines. I’ve heard over the years people say, “Oh it’s just a headache,” or “Drink some water and you’ll be fine.” I’m here to say it’s more than just a headache and it’s more than a glass of water can fix. It’s debilitating and probably the worse pain you will experience in your life (some women even say worse than child birth – yikes). My migraines can come from almost anything; lack of sleep, stress, my menstrual cycle, changes in air pressure, too much sleep, too much alcohol, a storm brewing, a scent that was just too strong. You name it and it’s probably a trigger for a migraine.
If you’re a migraine suffer, you’re not alone. 28 million women suffer from migraines and they’re one of the leading health problems affecting women today. Women suffer from migraines more than three times as often as men. While some women get migraines maybe once a month or once every two months, 85% of women suffering from migraines are chronic migraine suffers, which means they experience 15 or more migraine days a month. Most people experience migraines due to the hormonal shifts that take place during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. According to Robin Watkins, CNM, WHNP-BC, Health Care Director at Power to Decide, “For people with menstrual migraines, it is usually the drop in estrogen that happens before your period that triggers them, so consistently taking a birth control with a low dose of estrogen, like continuously cycling the pill or the ring, can help.”
Migraines don’t care where you are or what you’re doing, they just attack. When a migraine hits I am down for the count for at least 2-4 hours—if not more depending how groggy I feel once I wake up from my nap. I can always count on a migraine attacking me on any “firsts.” I’ve come home with a migraine every first day of school since the fifth grade. I cannot explain the frustration in being so excited for a certain event, like a birthday party, family event, or day trip and have a migraine stand in the way of me enjoying mtself. Stress? Anxiety? Too much excitement? Who knows, but still to this day on any first day of a new internship or job, first day back at college I can rely on a migraine creeping in and ruining what should be an exciting day.
Birth control can either help migraines or worsen migraines. Watkins says, “People with migraines can use birth control methods including IUDs, implants, the shot, and the mini-pill without problems, but people who have migraines with aura should not use methods that have estrogen, like the pill, the patch, and the ring.” So, if you’re a migraine sufferer searching for a birth control method that works for you, talk to your health care provider. Migraines are more than just a headache and I hope this June we all take a moment to read up on migraines and learn about a disease that effect 28 million women each year.Thu, 06 Jun 2019 13:48:34 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/migraine-more-just-headacheUnderstanding the Intersection of Reproductive and Queer Rightshttps://powertodecide.org/news/understanding-intersection-reproductive-and-queer-rights
Though we may think of reproductive health as getting a pap smear or an ultrasound, it covers a wide variety of services and applies to all cisgender, transgender, agender, genderqueer, and genderfluid people. True reproductive care is any health care—physical, mental, or social— that allows people to make informed, safe, and responsible decisions around their reproductive systems.
As we celebrate Pride Month it’s important to focus on the unique barriers faced by the LGBT community. Currently, only 13 states prohibit health insurance discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Sadly, a full 10 states ban transition-related health care for transgender patients who have insurance through Medicaid. And these laws only tell of a part of queer people’s struggle to receive comprehensive, unbiased health care.
In 2018, the Center for American Progress released results from a survey of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer identifying patients which said that in the last year:
8% encountered a provider who refused to see them
6% were refused care by a provider
7% had a provider who would not recognize their family
9% heard harsh or abusive language from a provider treating them
7% experienced unwanted physical contact from a provider
The answers of transgender patients to the same questions show a larger problem:
29% encountered a provider who refused to see them
12% were refused care by a provider
23% had a provider who would not recognize their family
21% heard harsh or abusive language from a provider treating them
29% experienced unwanted physical contact from a provider
Other studies have shown that lesbian young women are two to 10 times more likely to become pregnant than heterosexual women and lesbian and bisexual women are often at higher risk of sexual assault due in part to their sexual orientation. Research also shows that sex education programs are failing LGBT youth.
We support Sex Ed for All, an initiative to help young people in marginalized populations such as queer youth (as well as communities of color, immigrants, and others) gain access to quality sexual health information and services, and the sense of agency and opportunity necessary to determine and act upon what is best for them. We know that deep systems inequities stand between the current reality and our goals of ensuring equality of information, access, and agency.
If a person has a bad experience at the doctor it’s natural for them to not want to put themselves in that position again. But not seeking care puts queer people’s health at a greater risk. LGBT individuals can contract STIs, have an unplanned pregnancy, or experience reproductive-based disease like ovarian or prostate cancer. All of these factors make it imperative queer people, and especially young people who identify as a gender or sexual minority, receive inclusive and comprehensive reproductive health.Thu, 06 Jun 2019 11:40:20 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/understanding-intersection-reproductive-and-queer-rightsJune 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/june-2019-power-player
At Power to Decide, we’re committed to uplifting the many individuals on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Sonya Borrero
Associate Professor of Medicine and Director, Center for Women's Health Research and Innovation, University of Pittsburgh Department of Medicine
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
As an internist much of my work focuses on the adult population, but within that population I certainly see young adults. Over the course of my career I’ve attempted to understand how socio-cultural, relational, and structural factors as well as health care experiences shape pregnancy intention and birth control decision making. What I’ve learned is that the strict pregnancy planning paradigm that we’re taught doesn’t match women’s lived realities around how they experience pregnancy or use birth control. For the last few years, we’ve worked to uncover and challenge the assumptions and biases that we (health care providers) have around sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing. As providers we need to ask, “How do we meet women where they are and get them to where they want to be, not where we want them to be?”
In my center at Pitt, we’ve recently started a new collaborative to develop patient-centered decision support tools to help ensure that people have the information they need to make not only informed, but value-concordant decisions around birth control and pregnancy. We developed these tools for adult populations, but we’re working with colleagues in Pediatrics to make sure that they’re responsive to adolescents’ needs too.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
During residency, I began to explore how I could combine my clinical interests in family planning with my broader commitment to health care equity. I happened to read an historical fiction novel set in India during the State of Emergency in the 70s, which described a vigorous program of forced sterilization - a history that I’m embarrassed to say I knew nothing about at the time. As I sought more information about it, I learned more about the history of coercive sterilization US among similarly marginalized populations. I started a research program during my fellowship to investigate why women of color and lower income woman experience sterilization at higher rates and was particularly interested in whether we, as a medical community, were consciously or unconsciously steering marginalized women to a permanent method of birth control.
The answer to that question is complicated, but what continues to motivate me is that I’ve become incredibly passionate about ensuring that all people can realize the basic human right to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to form a family. I’ve continued to learn more and more about the important and often unrecognized constraints that limit people’s reproductive freedom. I hope to bring these to the surface and make sure they’re addressed through public policy, health care interventions, and cultural change.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
This is a hard field to work in; it’s challenging, and it’s often perceived as “too controversial” or “too political” for funders. Tapping into your passion is critical. There are so many setbacks and dead ends. I’m amazed by some of my colleagues who have been instrumental in making sweeping changes to improve contraceptive and abortion access and care; while I would love to be able to do that, as a researcher I’m ok with the small, incremental pieces of knowledge that I can add to the field. That’s the nature of research. I keep plugging forward and trying different avenues to effect change from working with policy makers to clinical systems to trainees. Your passion will sustain you.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
For many people, forming families is a core essence of their humanity. So we must ensure that people can make decisions around family planning in ways that reflect their unique context, desires, and needs. We live in a society that has constrained that freedom for so many people in myriad ways; we need to recognize and address that.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
I’m on the Steering Committee for the Reproductive Well-Being Framework. I’m very excited about it and I appreciate that Power to Decide is willing to respond to our current socio-political reality in which we must explicitly make a commitment to inclusion, diversity, and equity if we hope to become a more just society.
They’re willing to dive into the difficult area of measurement and to think about what matters when people seek and receive health care services around family planning. We’re moving away or at least supplementing our traditional metrics and benchmarks to grapple with the larger concepts of reproductive well-being and patient experience. Many of us have struggled with these measurement issues and outcomes in our research and I’m happy to be part of a group dedicated to thinking about this.
*Responses have been edited for clarityTue, 04 Jun 2019 11:42:07 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/june-2019-power-playerGetting Real: 5 Ways to be an “Askable” Parenthttps://powertodecide.org/news/getting-real-5-ways-be-askable-parent
One recent Saturday, I had the pleasure (really!) of driving a carload of 8th grade girls to a party. As their chatter got louder and I grew increasingly invisible, I realized how much more they grapple with when it comes to relationships than I did in middle school. If someone likes your post on Instagram, does it mean they like you in real life? How long do you wait to text your crush back so you don’t seem too eager?
Despite this new landscape, one thing has remained true year in and year out: young people want and need their parents and the other adults who care about them to talk openly, honestly, and without judgment about all things sex, love, and relationships.
With 20+ years as part of Power to Decide I know that these are important (if tough) conversations, and that there’s no such thing as “The Talk”: it’s an ongoing dialogue that spans years. But now that I’m the mom of a teenager, I’m more aware of the need to strike just the right tone to allow these conversations to flourish. Decades of research show that parents are the most important influence on young people’s decisions about sex. According to New polling from Power to Decide in honor of May’s Talking Is Power month, one-third of adults say their parents (more so than their friends) were the biggest influence on their decisions about sex and birth control during their teen years. And more than eight in ten feel that they are someone a young person would trust to talk about sex, love and relationships.
Yet parents consistently underestimate their power, and believe that peers, pop culture, and partners are more influential. Not so! As media advisor to Power to Decide, I’ve had countless conversations with parent-focused media--and parents themselves—to assure them that young people really do want to hear from them, even if they don’t act like it. If we’re not talking with our young people about sex, everyone else is.
Whether you’re a parent, an aunt or uncle, a coach, or a mentor, if you have a young person who trusts you, you’ve already got the hardest part down. As an advocate, a mom, and a work in progress, I offer up five ways to help you cultivate your “askability”:
Take your cues from your teen. If eye-to-eye sit-downs feel too intense, try talking while you’re in the car or doing errands. Keep it informal. Print out something useful you found online and leave it where you know they’ll find it. Then bring it up later and ask what they thought. It’s a conversation, not a lecture. They may not tell you outright, but at least you’ve passed along trustworthy information that they can go back to.
Don’t freak out. Listen. Just because your young person has a question, don’t assume they’re doing it. If you judge, overreact, or jump to conclusions, you risk closing the door to future conversations—or send the message that there’s something wrong or shameful about having questions about sex. Listening is a very powerful tool. If you don’t have an answer or don’t know what to say, thank them for trusting you enough to come to you and commit to sharing answers once you find them.
Deputize someone you trust. It’s humbling but important to admit that as parents, we may not be the most comfortable fit for certain questions about sex and relationships. Find a young adult you trust: I’m lucky to have a wonderful group of young women who babysat my daughter and are still in our lives. They are closer in age to my teen and they can relate to her experiences. I have explicitly asked them to be there for my daughter and to be a safe, askable adult whom we both trust. They’re thrilled! They’ve known my girl since kindergarten and care for her deeply, they’re the perfect resource for her.
You’re more powerful than you think! Repeat this as many times as necessary. You don’t need to be a biology textbook to be helpful. You have what it takes to help them navigate relationships, power dynamics, heartbreak. You can help them sort out questions like: How do I know if I’m in love? How do I say no to someone without hurting their feelings? Will expressing my feelings for someone ruin our friendship? When is the right time to have sex? Should I start taking birth control if I’m not sexually active yet?
Don’t wait for them to come to you. If your teen hasn’t asked you anything, it doesn’t mean they don’t have questions. Instead of playing a game of chicken, take the first step. Pop culture can give you an easy entry point: is there a sex/relationship/pregnancy story in a TV show you both watch? Ask what advice they would give that character. Is a celebrity dealing with a cheating scandal? Ask your teen for their must-haves in a relationship. Check out this month’s compelling “Ask Dr. Ruth” documentary (in theaters now and on Hulu June 1), which makes the perfect case for open conversations with someone you trust—no matter your age.
Feeling inspired? Here’s a wealth of information to get you started. Let us know how it goes! Share your best conversation-starters with us and tag #TalkingIsPower @PowertoDecide.Thu, 30 May 2019 13:32:15 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/getting-real-5-ways-be-askable-parentMay 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are six stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Seeking Emergency Contraception in the United States
This review looked at the access and barriers to obtaining emergency contraception in the United States. Results indicate that although it is now available over-the-counter, barriers such as low stock and inaccurate pharmacy-provided information still make it difficult for people to access emergency contraception as needed.
Do Adolescent Women's Contraceptive Preferences Predict Method Use and Satisfaction?
In asking the above question, these authors conclude that the contraceptive preferences of young women vary based on demographics and reproductive health experiences. They note that young people’s birth control satisfaction and engagement may improve when using a method that matches their individual preferences.
Births: Provisional Data for 2018
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released provisional data on all US births in 2018. The report details several record lows; the lowest number of births in 32 years, the lowest fertility rate among women age 15 to 44, and the lowest total fertility rate. It also showed that teen births are down for all teens. The CDC will release final data around November 2019.
Improving Access to Abortion via Telehealth
This Guttmacher article examines how to improve abortion access, which in the United States is primarily a clinic-based service, using telehealth. The article has several highlights. First, telehealth providers can safely and effectively administer medical abortions. Second, telehealth can extend care to people living in communities that otherwise lack access to care. However, a variety of policies and barriers limit telehealth’s ability to extend that access.
Contraceptive Use by Women Across Different Sexual Orientation Groups
This study found that women who sleep with women are less likely than their heterosexual counterparts to have ever used any method of birth control. Conversely, the authors found that bisexual women were more likely than heterosexual women to use long-acting reversible contraceptives.
Association of State Medicaid Expansion Status with Low Birth Weight and Preterm Birth
Using data from 2011-2016, this analysis found that Medicaid expansion did not lead to significant changes in preterm or low birth weight births. However, Medicaid expansion did correspond with significant improvements in the disparities faced by black infants compared to white infants.Thu, 30 May 2019 09:46:17 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2019-power-updates-editionWorking with Marginalized Women in Franklin County, Ohiohttps://powertodecide.org/news/working-marginalized-women-franklin-county-ohio
Integrating family planning into substance abuse treatment is just one of the many best practices The Ohio Better Birth Outcomes (OBBO) collaborative is innovating to help reduce infant mortality in the Columbus, Ohio, and Franklin County region.
OBBO consists of the community’s four hospital systems, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Mount Carmel Health*, OhioHealth, and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, along with Columbus Public Health and PrimaryOne Health, the largest network of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Columbus.
Columbus has one of the highest infant mortality rates of America’s 50 largest cities. An average of three babies die each week in Columbus before their first birthday. OBBO is a lead partner of CelebrateOne, the collective impact initiative housed in the City of Columbus Mayor’s Office to reduce the infant mortality rate by focusing on efforts to decrease prematurity, expanding access to prenatal care, and improving reproductive health planning access and education.
Along with the current infant mortality crisis, the region is also experiencing an opioid crisis. In 2017, Ohio ranked second in the U.S. for the highest number of drug overdose deaths. The Franklin County coroner reported that between 2012 and 2016, the county saw a 71% increase in overdose deaths.
A recent study in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that nine out of ten pregnancies among women addicted to opiates were unintended. Women who are dependent and pregnant often are faced with social determinants that can negatively affect the outcomes of the baby. Those social determinants, such as poor nutrition, poverty, lack of prenatal care, and untreated behavioral health concerns, can lead to prematurity and neonatal abstinence syndrome. One recent conversation with a drug treatment center in Columbus found that more than 78 percent of the women being treated for drug addiction also smoked cigarettes, which can be directly linked to infant mortality.
Additionally, the long-term neurodevelopmental consequences of prenatal opioid exposure is poorly understood. Children may experience life-long challenges with executive function and other developmental challenges.
It is in this landscape that OBBO has implemented several projects that integrate family planning into substance abuse treatment in Columbus.
A Title X extension clinic at CompDrug, a therapeutic treatment provider, offers daily medication assisted therapy (MAT) as well as a fully responsive range of research-based programs and services to assist in the prevention, treatment, recovery, and wellness of those affected by the disease of addiction. The clinic, open one morning a week, provides a wide range of free women’s health services, including same-day access to all methods of contraceptives. All services are provided on a walk-in basis, which is critical for a population facing multiple barriers to making and keeping appointments. The clinic is located in a separate building next door to the dosing center. By separating the clinic from the congested and busy dosing center, the clinic provides a calm and light atmosphere. Feedback from a focus group revealed that there is a perceived stigma that women carry with them, and they often face judgement from medical providers when they explain their addiction during medical appointments. This is not the case at the clinic. Overwhelmingly, the women were thrilled that the providers at the clinic understood they were recovering addicts, which eliminated the stigma and awkward conversations about their addiction. This has enabled some to access the reproductive healthcare they desire but have neglected in some cases for years. This is especially important for women who have already encountered additional trauma in the medical system. Since the initiative has started we have expanded into 9 locations across Franklin County and have provided 243 women’s health appointments and 43 LARC methods as well as all other methods of contraception.
OBBO is also piloting an initiative to incorporate reproductive health education and a mobile care unit into the Columbus CATCH Program. The CATCH program is a specialized docket of the Municipal Court that provides a non-adversarial approach to defendants who have pled guilty to loitering, solicitation, prostitution, and other crimes where the defendant has been the victim of human trafficking. The defendant agrees to two years of probation and to adhere to the treatment plan that was designed uniquely for the individual, including residential treatment, counseling, random drug screens, and a weekly CATCH status review hearing. Health educators attend court sessions to provide sexual and reproductive health education to the participants. Court staff and counselors have been trained to help make appointments during the monthly visit of a mobile medical unit. This model of client education, staff partnerships, and monthly mobile services is also being integrated into two residential treatment facilities for females in recovery services for addiction.
OBBO is also working to pair women’s health services with current inpatient and outpatient MAT treatment programs within several hospital systems and FQHCs across the city. OBBO is supporting the training of staff in the MAT programs to incorporate assessment of pregnancy intent into the clinical case plans, and then creating a direct link to internal women’s health services for patients. In some cases, registration staff will ask when a new patient’s last women’s health exam occurred. If more than a year ago and she desires an appointment, her first MAT visit will also be linked with a women’s health appointment on the same day that she attends a MAT appointment to reduce additional transportation barriers.
As Ohio continues to experience an infant mortality crisis as well as the ongoing opioid crisis, and more treatment centers look to holistically treat patients, OBBO will continue to analyze results of the pilot projects, work to improve processes and results, and adapt to meet the needs of women in treatment and the needs of the centers serving this population.
*Mount Carmel Health System does not promote, condone or endorse all the values expressed herein. While Mount Carmel is a member of OBBO no resources from Mount Carmel were used in the development or dissemination contraceptive services or education.Wed, 29 May 2019 12:33:22 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/working-marginalized-women-franklin-county-ohioFoster Care + Sex Ed: Why it Mattershttps://powertodecide.org/news/foster-care-sex-ed-why-it-matters
Everyone deserves quality sex education. Receiving incomplete or inaccurate sex education, is like moving to a new city without a GPS, you’re excited to explore, but frustrated to say the least, you’re more likely to end up going in circles and repeating the same mistakes.
Most teens struggle to get accurate and appropriate sex education. These barriers are even more difficult to overcome when teens face a lack of social supports and frequent instability at home. Youth in foster care experience a myriad of systematic barriers to the educational and social opportunities that allow their peers to access appropriate and accurate information regarding sex, love, and relationships.
Navigating these topics as a young adult who received inaccurate or incomplete sex education in middle or high school is a minefield. Avoiding unhealthy relationships, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections is extremely challenging when you don’t know how to appropriately protect yourself. Even navigating a healthy relationship is hard. Knowing how to handle conflict and communicate effectively are skills that, regardless of what kind of household you grew up in, many of us work constantly to improve.
That’s why we believe talking is power. Sex education comes in many forms and from many sources. Talking about the barriers that youth in state care face elevates their voice and highlights the adults in their lives that have the opportunity to act as their champions. We believe in sex ed for all because everyone needs and deserves quality sexual health information and access. Sex Ed For All makes up part of our collective effort to help young people in marginalized populations—including communities of color, LGBTQ young people, immigrants, those with lower incomes, those living in rural areas, and, of course, those in foster care—gain access to the information and care they need to ensure their lifelong sexual and reproductive health.
At Power to Decide, we work with current and former college students in foster care specifically through the New York Foundling Dorm Project in New York City and the Guardian Scholars and CAYFES/NextUp programs in Los Angeles. You can read more about the work we are supporting in Los Angeles here. We support these programs and promote dialogue on these topics by providing college campuses with clinical resources and directly engaging with students through our Bedsider U program as well as through in-person training.
We hope to expand our work with these young people and continue to contribute to a landscape where sex ed is available to everyone and equips teens navigate and maintain healthy relationships throughout their lives. Wed, 29 May 2019 12:23:35 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/foster-care-sex-ed-why-it-mattersSex education legislation offers young people information and access they deservehttps://powertodecide.org/news/sex-education-legislation-offers-young-people-information-and-access-they-deserve
Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation designed to help ensure that all young people have high-quality, culturally competent sexual health information and access to the care they need to make healthy decisions. The Real Education for Healthy Youth Act (REHYA) and the Youth Access to Sexual Health Services Act (YASHS) will help bridge the gap in access that existing federal funding for evidence-based sexual health education cannot meet.
The introduction of the legislation is timely for many reasons. We just launched an initiative, Sex Ed for all Month, which shines a light on the importance of all young people having the sexual health information, access and rights they need and deserve in order to make healthy decisions for themselves and live life on their terms. The effort works towards all young people having the power to access the education and health care they need to achieve the best positive outcomes for themselves. Sex Ed for All Month replaces Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month.
Sex Ed for All Month also makes up part of our collective effort to help young people in marginalized populations — including communities of color, LGBTQ young people, immigrants, those with lower incomes, those living in rural areas and those in foster care — gain access to the information and care they need.
We are proud to stand alongside our sister organizations, which include Advocates for Youth, Healthy Teen Network, Planned Parenthood Federation of America and the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States (SIECUS) in this effort.
Our contribution to Sex Ed for All Month is #TalkingIsPower, a campaign to spark meaningful conversations about sex, love, relationships and contraception between young people and the parents, champions and allies who care about them. We encourage champions to talk early and often with the young people in their life and the campaign offers tools and resources to facilitate these conversations.
Adults are more powerful than they think in the lives of young people. Power to Decide conducted a recent poll in which respondents between age 18 and 34 told us that their schools, their parents and porn were common sources of information on matters related to sex and contraception.
We know that there are both positive and negative resources that young people can readily access for their questions related to sex and contraception. We also know that sex education comes in many forms and from many sources. Our effort to ensure schools, champions and allies are the most powerful sources in the life of a young person must include a collaborative process with the ultimate goal of ensuring young people make healthy decisions. Parents, champions and allies have the unique opportunity to act as a constant source of positive influence in the lives of young people.
The introduction of legislation is not only timely but also important to fuel the efforts underway for Sex Ed For All Month which is focused on providing resources and information young people need to make informed decisions. In addition, the legislation introduced will complement the role that champions and allies play by establishing consistent national standards for high-quality, culturally competent sexual health education. This combined effort helps ensure that young people have the resources and information they need to make informed decisions about sex, love and relationships.
Too many young people go without the sexual health information and access to the care they not only need but deserve. At Power to Decide, we believe that all young people — no matter who they are or where they live — deserve quality sexual information, access to reproductive health services and the agency and support necessary to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Throughout the year, Power to Decide remains committed to ensuring all young people have access to high-quality sex education in order to make informed and healthy decisions throughout their lives.
This piece was originally published on The Hill.
Wed, 29 May 2019 09:38:59 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/sex-education-legislation-offers-young-people-information-and-access-they-deserveHow Birth Control Can Ease Painful Periodshttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-birth-control-can-ease-painful-periods
On May 28, along with numerous other organizations, we recognize Menstrual Hygiene Day. This campaign aims to reduce the silence around and raise awareness of periods and advocate for people who have periods around the globe to have access to what they need to effectively manage their menstrual hygiene. Not having access to what is needed for good menstrual hygiene can lead to physical burdens like reproductive and urinary tract infections, and psychosocial burdens like being pulled from school early as a result of having a period, as happens in some countries.
Even for those who have the ability to manage their periods, periods can represent the worst time of their month. It’s normal to have some cramping, bloating, nausea, or diarrhea before period start each month. These symptoms can continue for a few days after the period starts, and they can be annoying. Many suffer from severe period pain too. The three most common period-related conditions are dysmenorrhea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis.
People with dysmenorrhea experience abdominal pain, lower back pain, and cramping during their period and the symptoms are bad enough to interfere with their daily routine. Those with PCOS have a hormone imbalance that causes cysts to grow on their ovaries and can cause heavy, irregular, or painful periods. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue grows outside of the uterus instead of inside, causing pelvic pain.
A highly recommended solution for all three conditions? Hormonal birth control.
All types of hormonal birth control reduce pain better than over-the-counter medication. The hormonal IUD, the implant, the shot, the pill, the patch, and the ring can all make periods lighter because these contraceptive methods make the lining of the uterus thinner. And a thinner uterus lining has less tissue to shed, resulting in lighter periods.
Some types of contraception can even help reduce the overall number of periods for months or even years at a time. One of the best ways to treat painful periods is with the hormonal IUD, which makes periods lighter and shorter for nearly all users, and many stop getting periods even after one year of use. Similarly, around half of all who use the shot stop getting their periods after one year. And by taking the pill or using the ring continuously it’s possible to stop menstruation completely.
All this matters because more than 19 million US women in need do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. They live in what we call contraceptive deserts. For young people with annoying or even painful periods, living in a contraceptive desert creates a significant roadblock on the path of opportunity. And we know that there are plenty of people in the US who don’t qualify for publicly funded contraception who also rely on these health centers. It’s likely that 19.5 million is a conservative estimate of those affected by contraceptive deserts.
Understanding your body, knowing what’s normal and what isn’t, and having the ability to get the right type of birth control are all necessary for young people to live life on their own terms. But helping ensure that people have access to the full range of contraceptive methods is only part of the answer. It’s also necessary to reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation. So please join us in saying #NoMoreLimits and help to break the silence around periods.Tue, 28 May 2019 10:05:27 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-birth-control-can-ease-painful-periodsHelp Young People Today: #TalkingIsPower 2019https://powertodecide.org/news/help-young-people-today-talkingispower-2019
During my time at Power to Decide, I’ve been around as my colleagues answered hundreds of anonymous questions from young people, such as:
What if I'm ready, but my boyfriend's not?
How do I ask a girl out face-to-face?
Why does he want to wait till next year to date?
Can I get pregnant if I am on birth control pills, but they were prescribed for skin problems?
My boyfriend doesn't want to use a condom if we have sex. What do I do? I don't want to risk myself.
There is a big party on Friday all my friends are going I asked my boyfriend to go with me, but we had a massive argument and he said he didn’t want to go so I am not going. I really want to go but feel as though I can’t, what do I do?
Once you hear questions like these, it becomes clear that young people need champions they can go to. This is why the work of Power to Decide is so important.
Since our founding in 1996, Power to Decide has worked to ensure that all young people—no matter who they are, where they live, or what their economic status might be—have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. We provide trusted, high-quality, and accurate information—backed by research—on reproductive health and contraceptive methods in a variety of ways so young people have what they need to make informed decisions.
You can ensure that young people get unbiased, fact-based information about sex, love, relationships and birth control by donating to Power to Decide today.
Why is this so important?
1. Being young is difficult. Young people are dealing with all kinds of feelings, emotions, and situations for the first time. Plus, the older you get, the more you know, and you can take care of yourself so why won’t your parents just leave you alone?
2. Young people are inundated with false information, half-truths, rumors, and myths about sex, love, relationships, and birth control. Adults twice their age and older have trouble distinguishing fact from fiction online, so of course young people sometimes struggle to tell the difference, especially regarding what could feel like embarrassing or confusing topics.
And because of you and your support of this comprehensive approach, there has been great success: the teen birth rate dropped another 7% to 18.8 births per 1,000 girls last year—a 70% drop from its peak of 61.8 births per 1,000 in 1991.
Nevertheless, there is still more to do. Despite significant declines, due to systematic inequalities in access to education and health care, the teen birth rate is roughly twice as high among Latina (29 births per 1,000) and African American teens (28 births per 1,000) as compared with non-Hispanic white teens (13 births per 1,000).
You can create new opportunities for young people to get informed, take control, and advocate for themselves—and to protect the amazing life opportunities that lie ahead of them with a generous, tax-deductible donation today.
As we approach proms, graduations, and the long days of summer, there are going to be lots of young people out there finding themselves in unfamiliar situations, experiencing firsts, unsure of themselves, and in need of fact-based, unbiased information and guidance.
Young people need champions. They need you.
Will you help them?Thu, 23 May 2019 10:23:33 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/help-young-people-today-talkingispower-2019#APAHM 2019: Four Asian Pacific Islander Health Organizations You Should Knowhttps://powertodecide.org/news/apahm-2019-four-asian-pacific-islander-health-organizations-you-should-know
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) is a time to reflect on all of the unique experiences of Asian Pacific Islanders (APIs) living in the United States. This month, we proudly share the contributions of four Asian American (AA), Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (NHPI) health organizations whose missions help to ensure AA and NHPI communities across the nation receive access to affordable, high-quality, and culturally proficient health care.
National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF)
The National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum is a community-based non-profit that addresses civil rights, economic justice, educational access, ending violence against women, health, and immigrant and refugee rights in API communities. Founded in 1996 by over 150 “founding sisters,”—following a United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing—the forum currently has fifteen chapters across the United States that partner with like organizations working to support women’s health including: the Affordable Care Act Implementation, which helps to ensure access to health care for immigrants as well as access to comprehensive reproductive health care for women; and the Young Women's Collaborative, which works to empower women undergraduates to develop and lead community-based research and campaigns around women's sexual health issues.
Asian Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF)
For over 30 years, the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum has devoted itself to influencing policy, mobilizing communities, and strengthening programs and organizations to improve the well-being of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders across the nation. The organization is headquartered in Oakland, CA and has a policy office in Washington, DC. As the oldest and largest national health advocacy organization working with AA and NHPI people, the APIAHF works to connect political influencers with API communities by providing political analysis, research and data support, and effective communications strategies to health policy and social justice organizations. APIAHF makes certain that AA and NHPI voices and faces are recognized in the political realm and helps them to advance the health policies that best serve their needs.
The Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO)
The Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations is a national association representing community health organizations dedicated to promoting advocacy, collaboration, and leadership that improves the health status and access of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Since its establishment in 1987, AAPCHO has advocated for underserved and underinsured AA and NHPI communities through the development of health education and promotion programs and by providing technical assistance, training, data, and resources to community health centers and other community-based organizations. Current AAPCHO projects provide AA and NHPI communities with comprehensive primary care in over 25 languages to over 300,000 people in California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Washington, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.
Asian Pacific Islander Queer Women and Transgender Community (APIQWTC)
Asian Pacific Islander Queer Women Transgender Community is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization in the San Francisco Bay Area that provides opportunities for Asian and Pacific Islander queer women and transgender people to socialize, network, build community, engage in inter-generational organizing, and increase community visibility. APIQWTC grew out of the API Lunar New Year Banquet, founded in 1987, by a small group of queer and transgender Asian women and was officially founded in 1999 as a new hub for established and new community groups to exchange news and coordinate projects in the Bay Area. Over time, the APIQWTC evolved from a network to a community organization. Today, it’s a space for "many queer women and transgender Asians [who] live in the closet in fear of losing their family and community."Thu, 23 May 2019 10:03:55 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/apahm-2019-four-asian-pacific-islander-health-organizations-you-should-knowThese High Schoolers Say, “Talking is Power”https://powertodecide.org/news/these-high-schoolers-say-talking-power
We recently hosted tenth grade students visiting Washington, DC from New York City. The students reached out to us to learn about our work and the world of reproductive health care. They met with members of our staff to discuss their questions.
May is Sex Ed For All Month, which focuses on the sexual health information, access, and rights young people need and deserve to make healthy decisions for themselves and live life on their terms. To highlight Sex Ed For All, we asked the students questions about the sex ed curriculum they’ve experienced. They noted the need for more comprehensive curriculum and the importance of having a parent or champion in their life to answer questions about sex and contraception without judgment.
We heard from students themselves that talking is indeed power.
What was sex education like in your school?
Katrina and Maddie: We went to the same middle school and had sex ed in eighth grade. The school brought in an outside group who gave us a lot of facts about birth control. The group came in every other week for a month or two and taught our classes. They talked to us about what sex is and our birth control options and a little bit about consent. But they only covered heterosexual sex and they didn’t talk very much about the realities of life like money or how to involve our parents or what it’d be like to go into a clinic.
Nick: I went to a Catholic school and we only learned about abstinence there. They told us that if we had sex outside of marriage we’d get STIs and get pregnant. So we didn’t have any sex ed, they only went into details about the negative effects of sex.
Sara: My sex ed really focused on anatomy, not protection or information. They didn’t talk about birth control. We basically learned about biology instead of actual human interaction.
Did you feel that anything was missing from your sex education?
Katrina: My classes told us about how we should go to a clinic to get care, but they didn’t address what to do if we didn’t have access to a clinic or how much we (or the clinic) have to tell our parents. Also, we weren’t that mature in eighth grade, so I wish they had eased into sex ed more, maybe starting with teaching us about our bodies and then moving into more details and talking about stuff like consent and healthy relationships. That way we could be mature enough to handle the information we go instead of the class laughing a lot every time our teacher used words like penis or vagina.
Maddie: My friends were learning about things that I wasn’t because what we learned varied by what our class and our teacher. Standardized lessons or having us all in one class to learn together would have prevented this from happening. They also didn’t hand out any condoms, which means if we want them we need to ask someone or go buy them ourselves.
Nick: I wish we started getting sex ed at a younger age. I agree with Katrina, we should start smaller (like how our bodies work) before we move to larger issues (like consent and relationships). At our school consent is kind of a joke because of how it was presented to us and they didn’t cover how guys can get taken advantage of as well.
Sara: I wish they’d told us more about real life situations. We would have benefited so much from learning about coercion and how to have communication in a relationship. Schools could take away so much shame by being more informative, being more open, and being more supportive.
Who do you go to when you have questions about sex, love, and relationships?
Katrina: I go to my brother. He’s eight years older than me, but we’re still close and I trust him.
Maddie: I’m really lucky. I can go to my mom, but I also have a lot of adults in my life that I trust and can go to.
Nick: I don’t really have anyone.
Sara: My friends, but that’s not always the best because we don’t have all the answers. I go to the internet too sometimes.
In your ideal world who would you ask your questions?
Katrina: My Mom.
Maddie: I wish there was a counselor or teacher at school I could trust.
Nick: A therapist or a genie. I want someone who I can ask my questions, get answers I trust, and then they go away again. I want trusted information without judgement.
Sara: My parents.
We’ve changed their names to protect their anonymity. Wed, 22 May 2019 10:03:49 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/these-high-schoolers-say-talking-powerToo Many Women Lack Birth Control Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/too-many-women-lack-birth-control-access
If you’ve ever felt frustrated or angered by the distance, the time, and the choices that people are forced to make when accessing birth control – you’re not alone. We believe you shouldn’t have to choose between a stable income and creating a family on your own timeline. We believe that if you choose to use birth control – for whatever reason – you should have access to it within 60 minutes of wherever you live, regardless of your income.
But for 19.5 million women in need of publicly funded contraception who live in contraceptive deserts this is their reality. A contraceptive desert is a place where women lack “reasonable access” to a health center with the full range of birth control methods available. A conservative definition defines “reasonable access” as at least one health center or provider for every 1,000 women in need of publicly funded contraception. And we know that there are plenty of women in the US who don’t qualify for publicly funded contraception who also rely on these health centers. It’s likely that 19.5 million is a conservative estimate of those affected by contraceptive deserts.
The landscape of contraceptive access becomes even more dire if we take into account the removal of Title X health centers. Title X is a government program that provides federal funds to health centers that provide low-income women with contraception and reproductive health care services. With the threat of the domestic gag rule and other recent attacks on Title X, we looked at what would happen if these critical health centers went away. If Title X health centers were eliminated, approximately, 19.8 million women would reside in a contraceptive desert and 4.3 million would reside in counties without access to a single health center that provides the full range of contraceptive methods.
Seeing a provider, accessing trusted information, and finding the right birth control becomes nearly impossible without access. To gain it those living in a contraceptive deserts often face decisions such as, “Do I take an unpaid day off work or do I skip the doctor?” “Can I afford to pay a babysitter during my appointment?” and “Is getting birth control worth taking 4 city buses and walking a mile?”
Check out our birth control access map to see what access looks like in your community and compare it to access in the counties and states around you. As you look consider how the map might change if Title X health centers were eliminated and 2.6 million more women lived in counties without access to a single health center that provided the full range of birth control methods. Eliminating Title X health centers would impact women in all 50 states. In Florida, 132,490 women would lose access, 206,710 women in Virginia would be affected, and 130,630 women in Oklahoma.Wed, 22 May 2019 09:56:05 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/too-many-women-lack-birth-control-accessLeah's Story: #TalkingIsPowerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/leahs-story-talkingispower
Growing up in a very strict religion, I was taught not to talk about or ask any questions related to sex, love, or relationships. I'm sure I could’ve talked to my older sisters had I needed to. But at that time, I just didn’t feel comfortable enough with myself. I moved away from home at age 17 and dropped out of school. By the age of 18, I was pregnant and terrified; I knew absolutely nothing about anything. But several people in my life helped shape the person that I am today.
My boyfriend’s mom supported me in every single way possible and was my biggest champion. She let me move in and helped me when I got sick from Hyperemesis Gravidarum, which is severe morning sickness that required hospital visits and sometimes stays. She would take off work most days or was there as soon as she clocked out if she couldn't take off. She was there for me in the room when my daughter was born and would wake up with me throughout the night when I was overwhelmed—even though she had to work in just a few hours.
During my pregnancy, I was introduced to a non-profit called J.A.M.E.S. INC. I met an educational doula through that program who then became my trusted advisor for 3+ years. She got me back to high school and helped me with the everyday struggles of sex, love, or relationships and parenting. She and others helped me realize that I could also be a trusted source for information to other teens who had questions about sex, love, or relationships and teen parenting.
I don't understand why in this society the topic of sex, love, or relationships is so "hush-hush." Why do we as children, teens, and even adults feel so uncomfortable talking about it with others? Honestly, I wish I had known that it was nothing to be ashamed of and I wish had been able to talk about it with the trusted adults in my life. Once we get rid of the notion that SLR is unmentionable and unthinkable, we could educate and empower so many of the young people who look up to us.
Here is the advice I would give to parents who want to talk to their children about sex, love, or relationships: you have to build the "you can talk to me about anything and not be judged or uncomfortable" atmosphere from a very young age. It’s vital for creating a foundation that encourages open communication with your child. I’m a mom to a two-year-old. I know she is young, but I really do believe that if I can teach her now that there are no off-limit conversation between she and me, and that she doesn't need to be uncomfortable asking me about all the things that cross her mind, I'll be giving her the most powerful tool a parent can give their child—her voice.
To be comfortable in your own skin is to be confident enough to break the taboo that sex, love, and relationships are "weird" to talk and think about. We have to talk about it, teach it, and acknowledge these topics. Conversation is the glue that fixes the broken lines of communication. Believe me, #TalkingIsPower!Tue, 21 May 2019 09:33:53 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/leahs-story-talkingispowerMay 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2019-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Jessica Grossman, MD
CEO, Medicines360
What work have you done to ensure that young women have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
Since 2015, we have made our hormonal IUD, LILETTA, available at a low cost to public health networks across the country. Cost is often a barrier to IUD access, so making this option affordable to both clinics and patients is critical to overcoming that obstacle and expanding access for all women. In addition, we have partnered with other mission-driven organizations to help expand the reach of our programs. One such partnership is with Power to Decide and the Contraceptive Access Fund to ensure all women have access to the information and services they need in order to make informed decisions about their health.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I always wanted to be a doctor. But as I entered residency, I got this nagging feeling that I wouldn’t be able to think big enough in my role as an OBGYN. I witnessed so many inefficiencies in the health care system, yet no one seemed willing to make a change. I felt as though there was no room for innovation or entrepreneurship at the time. I knew for certain that I loved women's health, I loved technology, and I wanted to create change within the industry. I also knew that I could leverage my training as an OBGYN to innovate and improve women’s health care. I moved out to Silicon Valley and set my sights on the outdated systems in women's health care that had frustrated me during my residency. I launched Gynesonics Inc. in 2005 to focus on minimally invasive solutions for women’s health. From the first day, I knew I had found my passion: creating innovation to support healthy women. From there, I went on to serve in various roles at organizations who were addressing needs in maternal and women’s health before joining Medicines360. I knew the med tech industry was the perfect fit for me. I had found my place among others who loved medicine and wanted to bridge the technology gap within the healthcare space. I continue to channel that passion every day as my motivating factor for doing this job.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
At any point in your education or career, don’t be afraid to pivot. If you feel you’re being constrained on the path you’re on, create a new path. Recharting your path takes courage, creativity and tenacity. I am living proof that you can do it. You can forge a career path for yourself based on your passions. It might be bumpy, there might be twists and turns, but it is absolutely possible.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Empowering every woman to plan or avoid pregnancy leads to profoundly positive effects. Unplanned pregnancies are often associated with negative outcomes such as premature birth, maternal depression, and other lifelong health, economic, and societal difficulties. Access to contraception improves women’s opportunities for academic and economic advancement. In addition, women who have access to the full range of reproductive health care resources can better plan for their families and focus on their overall health and well-being. When women can choose the most effective forms of birth control, not only do unplanned pregnancy rates decrease, so do health care costs. It’s not just in the best interest of a woman to avoid unplanned pregnancy, but it also benefits her family, the economy, and society as whole.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
At the end of 2018, we were excited to partner with Power to Decide to support the 19 million women living in contraceptive deserts in the US, which are counties without reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods. Together, we are offering information about clinics that provide low cost IUD options via Power to Decide’s Bedsider program. In addition, we are supporting transportation and child care costs for women with lower incomes via the Contraceptive Access Fund. The Fund recently launched and aims to also educate providers about quality contraceptive care. 2019 is sure to be an exciting year for both of our organizations, and I am so excited to bring this partnership to the women who need it most.Mon, 20 May 2019 15:24:48 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2019-power-player3 Barriers to Communication: #TalkingIsPower 2019 https://powertodecide.org/news/3-barriers-communication-talkingispower-2019
Although we at Power to Decide all agree that #TalkingIsPower, we know that having an open and honest conversation about sex, love, and relationships isn’t always easy. It’s wonderful when champions (trusted adults) recognize the positive influence they can have on a young person’s life. However, it’s also a good idea to consider the barriers that may cause a young person to shut down communication with an adult, even one they once talked to openly. Here are three tips to help champions keep the lines of communication open with young people in discussions about sex.
Be aware of socio-economic differences that may present a challenge to dialogue. You will want to meet them where they are to give them good advice. It’s important to consider your young person’s socio-economic background and personal experiences because they are part of the reality that young person faces. Class can affect anything from access to affordable birth control, the stereotypes they are labeled with, and their level of trust with adults who ignore these challenges. Try not to assume a young person’s socio-economic level implies they know more or less about sex, love, and relationships. If they are opening up to you, demonstrate a willingness to listen to them to learn their point-of-view.
Be aware of the cultural differences that may be at the forefront of your young person’s mind. When we think about culture, we often focus on national, ethnic, or religious cultures in singular ways, rather than considering how they often combine to form complicated social customs. For example, cultural deference to adults or authority figures could mean a young person feels obligated to have a conversation with you that they’re not quite comfortable having. If the young person you care about comes from a family or culture that discourages open discussions about intimacy or sexual health, take your cue from them. Being too pushy might cause them to withdraw. On the other hand, their cultural norms could present a barrier to communication about sex, love, and relationships. You will want to know whether or not it is considered “taboo” in their culture to talk frankly about sex, to admit having it, or even admit thinking about having it. In either case, let them know you are there for them when they are ready to have that conversation, understanding they may have to work through their cultural barriers.
Be aware of the ableism a young person may face when talking about their sexual health, whether their disability is visible or invisible. (Ableism is unconscious or deliberate social prejudice against people who have a disability.) Contrary to societal beliefs, young people with disabilities are sexual and want to make their own decisions about their bodies and their lives. As their champion, you can help connect them with the tools, information, and resources they need to feel empowered. But it’s important this is done with a sense of mutual respect. Essentially, learn as much as you can about your young person’s disability by both listening to them and researching on your own. This may help you to understand some of the challenges they could face in talking to you or other adults about sex. Consider them the expert on their lived experiences. Don’t try to “fix” them but do give your assistance when they express a need for it. And if you aren’t sure how to help, ask them directly how you can best support and advocate for them.
Above all, keep in mind that your young person is an individual with a unique background that you should take into consideration when you communicate with them. Doing so could be the difference between earning (and keeping) their trust or alienating them. As a champion, you have a key role in their life, and polling data shows that young people trust your information about sex, love, and relationships. No matter what the barriers to having “the talk” may be, remember that #TalkingIsPower and will help enable young people to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.Thu, 16 May 2019 14:19:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/3-barriers-communication-talkingispower-2019Millennial’s Guide: #TalkingIsPower 2019 https://powertodecide.org/news/millennials-guide-talkingispower-2019
Do you remember when you and your parents had “The Talk”? We all know it’s as awkward as it is important. But did you know “The Talk” is not limited to just parents and guardians? Or that it's even better if it's not just a one-time deal? Continually talking about sex, love, and relationships throughout kids’ lives is the best approach. And any champion, mentor, or advocate for young people can join and support parents in having these important discussions.
In fact, Millennials (adults age 23–38) are in a unique position to positively influence the young people in their lives. Sometimes it’s less intimidating for adolescents to speak to an older sibling, a trusted coach, or a favorite older cousin than their parent or guardian.
So, even if you don't have children of your own, you can still make a difference in a young person’s life. Don’t know where to start? Here are five tips to spark meaningful conversations about sex, love, and relationships with the young people you care about most.
Go with what you know!
If you are close enough to a young person to talk to them about sex, don’t be afraid to use your own experiences to illustrate your points. We don’t mean giving them an X-rated play-by-play though! Use your knowledge of their interests to smooth the way. If you know they love a TV show, for example, watch an episode that involves sex, love, or relationships together and talk about the action unfolding on screen.
Be Yourself!
This may sound too easy but it’s a great golden rule. Your young person trusts you because of who you are. When you approach them to talk about sex, you don’t have to put on your “adult voice.” You also don’t have to work harder to come across as cool (seriously, it’s embarrassing for everyone when people try to use slang they don’t understand). Just talk to them the way you normally would.
Get vulnerable!
You never have to reveal anything you don't want to but try talking about your teen years to help them to relate. You might talk about a great relationship you had and what made it so awesome. Or you can share some mistakes you made when you were their age—and what you learned from them. Don’t pretend as if you did everything right at their age. Young people sometimes fear adults have forgotten what it feels like to be a teenager. As a Millennial, you are likely closer in age to them than their parents. This is an advantage! Remind your young person that not too long ago you were in their shoes.
Be an active listener.
Young people often avoid bringing up sex, love, or relationships for fear of a lecture from the adults in their lives. And while you may feel expected to give advice, sometimes it’s okay to just let them vent. When the young person in your life comes to talk to you, listen carefully and don’t interrupt. Watch their body language. Hold onto a few key points they bring up for later. When they have finished talking, ask them if they want your thoughts on what they just told you. If they do, great! Start talking! If not, it’s ok to move on.
Make them laugh!
Most adults approach “The Talk” as a super serious event. Often that’s why it’s so awkward, and no one makes eye contact or asks questions. While making sure that young people understand safe and consensual sex is very important, laughter helps to disarm people. Don’t think you have to stay serious just because you’re talking about real life. Love and relationships provide so much material to make us laugh. Even a corny joke can help crack a smile and break the ice during an uncomfortable moment.
The most important thing to remember when you’re having “The Talk” with young people is that they want to hear what you have to say about sex, love, and relationships. They look up to you as a mature young adult who isn’t as “old” or out of touch as their parents. Use your special connection as a trusted Millennial mentor with care. Whether you’re a close cousin, coach, counselor, or an older sibling, you can help ensure the young person in your life has enough support, knowledge, and power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
PS You can help ensure that young people get unbiased, fact-based information about sex, love, relationships and birth control by donating to Power to Decide today. Wed, 15 May 2019 09:38:21 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/millennials-guide-talkingispower-2019Guide for Providers: #TalkingIsPower 2019https://powertodecide.org/news/guide-for-providers-talkingispower-2019
Conversations about sex, love, and relationships may start in the exam room, but they should continue after the appointment ends. Having meaningful conversations on these topics should start early and occur often in young people’s lives, which means that it’s also important to educate parents and champions too. While our work varies based on our personal experiences, our patients’ stories, and even the physical layout of our offices, when it comes to talking to teen and young adult patients about sex, love, and relationships, here are a few things that everyone should consider:
Confidentiality.
Being under age 18 doesn’t mean that young people have no right to privacy when seeking medical care or advice. Many states even protect access to confidential counseling and services for sexual activity, pregnancy, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). As you and your patients talk about which birth control method would work best for them, the possibility of doing an STI test, or the need for prenatal services, it’s important to know what your state laws say about a minor’s ability to consent to certain types of care and what office or insurance billing practices may risk the doctor-patient confidentiality. Work with your patient to do what is best for them, even if it means sending them to another clinic.
The caveat to confidential care that’s important to review with you patients upfront is when you might be legally required to break confidentiality as a mandated reporter.
There is no one size fits all.
Physically, cognitively, and emotionally everyone develops at different rates and in different ways. And this growth is fueled both internally and externally. It’s unlikely that we’ll ever treat two patients in the exact same way. Make sure you enter every appointment with an open mind and a flexible plan for how the appointment(s) will progress.
And think about the messages that physical layout and all office staff are sending to young people about their sexual health. Do you start a conversation about sexual health happen in a hallway or another area with foot traffic or low privacy? Do you have information (and condoms!) available in your waiting room, exam room, or by the exit for patients to take home without having to ask?
Starting the cringe-worthy conversation.
As providers we offer a unique perspective for young patients and a chance to help their champions keep the conversations going outside of the exam room. Young people and champions come to us for guidance and advice on health protective behaviors, everything from healthy eating and vaccines to screen time and learning
We teach young children to look both ways before crossing a street and to wear a helmet when they ride their bike. We teach teens to always wear a seat belt and not to text and drive. We must also teach our young people about sex, love, and relationships. While getting the conversations started may feel more uncomfortable than road safety, taking about sex, love, and relationships is no less important. There is no one “right” way to start these conversations, it’s just important for them to happen—for many young people, this may be the first honest conversation that they have had about these topics.
Information = power.
Sex and sexual health education allow teens to make informed decisions as they go through life. As providers we should work to ensure that our patients know as much as possible about their bodies and how to live healthy lives.
The best way to ensure that the young people in our lives make the kind of decisions that allow them to live life on their own terms is to arm them with age appropriate, medically accurate information on birth control, STI prevention, and healthy relationships.
So, start early and talk often. We’re more powerful than we think.
PS You can help ensure that young people get unbiased, fact-based information about sex, love, relationships and birth control by donating to Power to Decide today. Tue, 14 May 2019 09:40:37 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/guide-for-providers-talkingispower-2019Guide for Teens: #TalkingIsPower 2019https://powertodecide.org/news/guide-for-teens-talkingispower-2019
We hear it all the time, adults just don’t get it. Too quick to make assumptions and too slow to listen. But they have a lot of good advice if you can approach the conversation right. To help you brainstorm how to talk to the parent or champion in your life here are a few stories we’ve heard from real teens and our advice:
My boyfriend and I want to tell our parents we're dating. Our families are close friends so we all know each other already- but my dad isn't fond of my bf and my mom asks a lot of questions when it comes to relationships (like if we've had/want to have sex, what the guy hopes to get out of the relationship). How can we convince my dad that he's a good guy and answer all my mom's awkward questions?
It’s definitely hard to talk to your parents if you’re afraid that they might not approve of your relationship! It’ll feel awkward but answering your mom’s questions first might be the way to go in this situation. Let her ask, give her as much information as you feel comfortable sharing, and once she’s on your side let her help you approach your dad. If you think the questions she’s asking are too personal respectfully tell her you’d rather not answer and explain why.
If you are planning to or have had sex, it’s really important that you use protection. Being honest about wanting birth control shows a lot of maturity in a relationship, even if it’s awkward to bring up. If you think your mom will ask about sex, do some research beforehand about different birth control methods and come prepared.
Why is it so hard to tell your parents you had sex already?
Talking to any adult about sex can make young people feel awkward or nervous, and that’s perfectly normal! If both of your parents are active in your life and it’s important to you that they both know that you’re sexually active, you might want to sit down with them separately. Remember that all adults were your age once and have been in your situation before. Even if your decisions worry the adult(s) in your life, it’s important that you understand where they’re coming from, and that you let them know where your head is at. Being open and honest is your best bet in this situation.
If you’re struggling to start the conversation try writing out what you want to say. Practice with a friend or in front of a mirror until you’re comfortable with the words. And if you’re not using birth control yet, do some research about different methods and come prepared. It’ll show how mature and responsible you are.
I don't do anything bad, but my parents still won't let me stay out late or hang out with my friends a lot. What can I do?
The best thing anyone in your situation can do is to have an honest conversation with the adults in your life. Calmly explain that you want a little more freedom and don’t get into an argument if you don’t like the response you get. Try to have a specific situation in mind when you’re asking, whether that’s seeing a movie on a school night, or moving your weekend curfew back an hour. Remember to keep calm, not to raise your voice, and to stick to your script. You want to show that you’re trustworthy and capable of handling more freedom. If you still get a no, ask why. Maybe there’s a concern about you hanging out with a specific person or going places without checking in. If that’s the case, try to compromise!
Why is "You're always on your phone" their excuse to be angry?
Cell phones weren’t a thing when most of the adults in your life were growing up. What seems second nature to you wasn’t a distraction that they had at your age, so they probably don’t understand why you’re spending so much time on your phone. On the other hand, it might just be an easy fight to pick if they’re annoyed about something else. The only way you’ll know which of these is right is by asking and having an honest conversation. Nothing beats face to face communication, so talk to them and get to the bottom of the tension.
How do I approach my mom about wanting to be on birth control?
Your best bet is to be really direct. It might feel weird to bring up, but it shows a lot of maturity that you want to discuss birth control. Do some research about different methods and sit down with the facts in front of you to refer to as you talk. Explain why you want to get birth control and give her the chance to respond. If you don’t feel like you can have this talk alone, schedule a doctor’s visit and invite your mom into the room to have a mediated conversation.
How can I have a better relationship with my parents?
In pretty much any relationship communication can always be better. When you have conflict with anyone (parents, teachers, friends, etc.) try to understand where they’re coming from and how they’re feeling. Journal about your thoughts and feelings, specifically things you might want to discuss with them or wish they understood. Hopefully this will help you to enter conversations with a clear head and avoid heated discussions. Talking about problems without fighting will show your parents (or whoever else you’re in conflict with) that you want to have a productive conversation and resolve your issues.
However, if you’re ever concerned that something about your relationship genuinely isn't healthy, talk to a trusted adult or friend. You should always feel safe around your family, partners, and friends.Mon, 13 May 2019 10:02:15 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/guide-for-teens-talkingispower-201959 Years of The Pill: Celebrating Our Gains, Fighting to Expand Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/59-years-pill-celebrating-our-gains-fighting-expand-access
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Advisory Committee voted to approve the first birth control pill 59 years ago. But as we celebrate the game-changing impact that the pill has had in contributing to women’s economic and educational mobility, we must also remember the inequities in access that persist for women across the nation.
Today, more than 30 women head Fortune 500 companies. Before 1972, when birth control was made legal for all women in the United States, there were no female CEOs. Between 1970 and 2017, the proportion of women 25 and older with at least a high school diploma increased from 55 percent to 90 percent, and the proportion with at least a bachelor’s degree increased from 8 percent to 35 percent.
Studies also indicate that the availability of birth control contributed to 30 percent of the wage gains made by women between the 1960s and the 1990s.
The availability of the pill and the widespread use of modern birth control methods have provided women with the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child—and helped women live life on their own terms.
Birth control has also become an integral part of women’s lives. A whopping 99 percent of women who have ever had sex report having used contraception at some point. Birth control is also no longer as controversial—nearly nine in 10 adults (87 percent) agree that everyone deserves access to the full range of birth control methods.
This is the truth about birth control: It’s popular, it’s a fundamental part of women’s lives and the majority of people in the U.S. consider it a fundamental part of women’s health care. But for too many women, those truths don’t tell the full story.
The last 59 years have given us much cause for celebration. But today, we remember the work that remains.
Today, women of color, young women living in poverty, and young women in rural areas are more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy. That’s because more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts—counties in which there is not reasonable access to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.
BCBenefits, hosted on Bedsider, our award-winning evidence-based birth control information and access network that reaches more than 7.3 million women annually, offers financial support to low income women who are 250 percent or below the poverty line to mitigate barriers to accessing birth control.
We must all rededicate ourselves to the effort of ensuring that all women—no matter who they are or where they live—have access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services. Only when all women have the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child will we have truly succeeded.
This piece was originally published on Ms.
Fri, 10 May 2019 09:12:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/59-years-pill-celebrating-our-gains-fighting-expand-accessWhat Birth Control Made Possible for Womenhttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-birth-control-made-possible-for-women
Studies have shown that access to birth control contributes greatly to women’s abilities to achieve their goals and live their lives on their own terms.
This has certainly been true for us: The power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child allowed us to attend college, graduate school and medical school and pursue our career goals. Thanks to birth control, we were able to choose whether or not to have a family without sacrificing our professional aspirations—and now, we get to spend our days advancing the reproductive wellbeing of women across the world.
But we must not take for granted the game-changing impact that access to birth control has made in the lives of millions of women.
It is important to remember that we all stand on the shoulders of the women who came before us and who fought for our reproductive freedoms. But the progress they made is ongoing.
It wasn’t until 1972 that the Supreme Court made birth control legal for all women, regardless of age or marital status—and the results of that change have been remarkable. Studies show that the availability of birth control contributed to 30 percent of the wage gains made by women between the 1960s and the 1990s. Before 1972, no Fortune 500 company had a female CEO; today, more than 30 women hold that title in ranking organizations. Between 1970 and 2017, the proportion of women 25 and older with at least a high school diploma increased from 55 percent to 90 percent and the proportion with at least a bachelor’s degree increased from 8 percent to 35 percent.
The next generation also benefits from women getting pregnant only if they want, when they want and under what circumstances they want. Research suggests that the life trajectories of the next generation would improve in terms of educational attainment and long-term economic security if their mothers’ timing for childbearing matched their intentions.
In recent years, we have seen declines in unplanned pregnancy, but disparities persist. The unplanned pregnancy rate remains higher for African American and Latina women, and rates of unplanned pregnancy among low-income women are five times higher than their more affluent peers.
These disparities say nothing personal about these women. Unplanned pregnancy is a systematic failure—one that often intersects with other social determinants of health and adverse outcomes such as premature birth, maternal depression and other lifelong health and economic challenges. One of the key drivers of these disparities is that not all women in this country have access to the full range of contraceptive options and thus are not able to have full reign over their bodies and lives.
More than 19 million women in the U.S. live in contraceptive deserts—areas where they do not have reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods, and are therefore unable to fully determine if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. We need to do better to ensure that every woman has access to the full range of contraceptive options—no matter who she is or where she lives and regardless of her socioeconomic status.
Today, almost all women—99 percent!—have used birth control at some point in their lives, across all demographics and political and religious affiliations. And nearly 80 percent of women and men, regardless of political and religious affiliation, believe that birth control is a basic part of women’s healthcare.
It is important to remember that we all stand on the shoulders of the women who came before us and who fought for our reproductive freedoms. (Which is why movements like #ThxBirthControl matter!) But the progress they made is ongoing.
Access to birth control helped us live the life we wanted, pursue our dreams and realize our full potential. Now, it’s our turn to take the lead in standing up for what is right: full access to birth control for all.
This piece was originally published on Ms.
Jessica Grossman, MD, is the chief executive officer of Medicines360, a nonprofit global women’s health pharmaceutical company with a mission to expand access to quality medicines for all women regardless of their socioeconomic status, insurance coverage or geographic location.
Thu, 09 May 2019 09:52:27 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-birth-control-made-possible-for-womenThe Power of Choice: Deciding When to Embrace Motherhood https://powertodecide.org/news/power-choice-deciding-when-embrace-motherhood
In recent years, we’ve witnessed a steady decline not only in the number of teen births, but women reporting first births later in life. Historically, birth rates have been the highest for women in the middle of reproductive age (i.e., 25 to 29); however, in recent years, women have delayed childbirth. According to the most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report, in 2017, for the second year in a row, women age 30 to 34 had the highest birth rate. Beginning in the early 2000s, the birth rate for women age 35 to 39 rose above that of their teenage counterparts, which reflects an overall delay in age of first birth.
To better understand why we’re witnessing a decline in birth rates among women of reproductive age, it is important to explore the underlying factors. Structural factors such as the economy, lack of paid parental leave, unaffordable child care costs, and rising student loan debt, may play a significant factor in young adults’ decisions to delay child birth. However, increased access to and affordability of birth control has also provided women with the ability to have more agency decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. This includes women who have already had a child and are using birth control to help time and space births in order to achieve their desired family size.
Over the past decade, the number of women who reported using long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods of birth control has increased. These include methods like the IUD and implant. With the passage of the ACA contraceptive coverage mandate in 2012, more women than ever before have access to these highly effective contraceptive methods. This increased access alongside increased affordability to the most effective contraceptive methods, has given women more opportunities to not only delay child birth, but more agency when it comes to family planning.
Given that Mother’s Day is swiftly approaching, it is important to acknowledge the role that birth control plays in giving everyone the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Now more than ever, we want to ensure that all young people continue to have affordable access to the birth control method of their choice and the opportunity to decide when to become a parent.Thu, 09 May 2019 09:37:37 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/power-choice-deciding-when-embrace-motherhoodChampion Guide: #TalkingIsPower 2019 https://powertodecide.org/news/champion-guide-talkingispower-2019
Champions play an important role in helping to ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. According to young people, champions—not pop culture—most influence their decisions about sex, love, and relationships. Don’t let the pressure get to you though! Check out our five tips to guide you through a thoughtful and (hopefully) slightly less awkward conversation about sex with the young people in your life.
Talk early. Talk often. And be specific.
Age-appropriate conversations about relationships and intimacy should begin early on in a young person’s life and continue through adolescence. Start the conversation and make sure that it is honest, open, and respectful. You don’t have to be a biology teacher; just be real. Candidly and confidently share what you believe about love and sex and why you believe it. Let them ask questions, and if you’re not sure about something, it’s okay to say: “Actually I don’t know!”
If you’re struggling to start the discussion, consider using our #TalkingIsPower conversation prompts.
Cultivate a culture of openness.
It’s important to be an “ask-able” champion who allows the young person in your life to share their feelings without fear of shame or condemnation. Conversations about love and sex should include asking your young person what they think, what they know, and what other topics they’re curious about. Ask what, if anything, worries them.
Make sure to listen as much as – or more than – you talk. Your words and experiences are important, but equally important is making sure that you hear and honor your young person’s voice.
Here are a few questions your young person may be curious about. Spark a conversation and ease the tension around taboo topics like sex and relationships.
When is the right time to start dating?
How do I know if I’m in love?
How will I know when I’m ready to have sex?
Will having sex make me more mature?
How do I manage pressure from my peers about having sex?
How does contraception work? Are some methods better than others? Are they safe?
Build a trusting relationship with the young person in your life.
Providing a supportive and nurturing environment for your young person leads to a warm and communication-rich relationship. This, in return, will help them form the foundation on which to build their future relationships. Research shows that talking with young people about sex does not encourage them to become sexually active. Just because they ask about sex, contraception, or dating don’t assume that your young person is sexually active or in a relationship. Talk to your young person with an open mind.
Help your young person plan for the future they envision for themselves.
Young people make more practical decisions, such as delaying sexual activity, when they understand that they have a bright future ahead of them. Help the young person in your life set meaningful goals for the future. Talk to them about what it takes to make plans happen and to reach their goals. Explain how an unplanned pregnancy can interrupt the best plans; for example, child care expenses may make it almost impossible to afford college. Encourage after school activities, community service, and the exploration of new interests and hobbies. They can learn job skills while also getting in touch with a wide variety of adults (future champions!) who care and are also committed to helping them achieve their goals.
Don’t give up.
Even if the young person in your life doesn’t want to talk with you or appears uninterested in (or horrified by) these conversations, it’s your job as their champion to keep talking. Trust us—it makes a difference!
Why have the talk now? Throughout the month of May, as part of the #TalkingIsPower movement, we’re asking young people and the champions who care about them to initiate meaningful conversations surrounding sex, love, relationships, and contraception.
We want to help you embrace your inner champion. We have a variety of materials to help jumpstart conversations, including videos and conversation prompts. Our young people are listening. Start early. Talk often. You’re more powerful than you think.
PS You can ensure that young people get unbiased, fact-based information about sex, love, relationships and birth control by donating to Power to Decide today. Wed, 08 May 2019 10:55:08 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/champion-guide-talkingispower-2019A New Direction for May: Sex Ed For All Month https://powertodecide.org/news/new-direction-for-may-sex-ed-for-all-month
We stand alongside our sister organizations, Advocates for Youth, Healthy Teen Network, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, and the Sexuality Information and Education Council of the United States, to announce May as Sex Ed For All Month: Accessing Power, Information, and Rights. As organizations dedicated to improving reproductive health, rights, and justice for all, Sex Ed For All Month focuses on the sexual health information, access, and rights young people need and deserve in order to make healthy decisions for themselves and live life on their terms.
Sex Ed For All also makes up part of our collective effort to help young people in marginalized populations—including communities of color, LGBTQ young people, immigrants, those with lower incomes, those living in rural areas, and those in foster care—gain access to the information and care they need to ensure their lifelong sexual and reproductive health.
This marks a new direction for Power to Decide. We will no longer observe National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month, which is also held in May. We applaud the many organizations around the country who have taken part in the month in creative ways to engage young people and communities. While we recognize and respect the origins for this observance, the issues have changed with the times. To meet the new reality, we have shifted our approach to focus on ensuring that all young people – no matter who they are or where they live – have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. We are laser focused on ensuring that all young people have access to quality sexual health information and services, and the sense of agency and opportunity necessary to determine and act upon what is best for them. We know that deep systems inequities stand between the current reality and our goals of ensuring equality of information, access, and agency. We are working tirelessly to change that. And that is why in May, we will now celebrate Sex Ed for All Month in coalition with our sister organizations.
As our contribution to Sex Ed for All Month, Power to Decide brings you #TalkingIsPower, a campaign that encourages champions and allies to talk early and often to the young people in their lives about sex, love, and relationships. Why Talking is Power? Because you are more powerful than you think. In our recent poll, respondents between age 18 and 34 told us that their parents were the most influential when it came to considering matters related to sex and contraception. Of course, polling results are anonymous; real life relationships are not. Young people are often reluctant to approach the champions in their lives with questions or concerns about relationships, sex, and contraception. We too often misinterpret this silence as lack of sway and we hold back. It is time to change that and it doesn’t have to be awkward. The positive reaction you receive from the young person in your life will likely surprise you.
Sex education comes in many forms and from many sources. Everyone knows at least one young person. Now is the time to be that trusted and powerful source in their life by pledging to start the conversation. Talking is indeed power.Mon, 06 May 2019 14:20:01 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/new-direction-for-may-sex-ed-for-all-monthApril 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are seven stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Clinician and Staff Perceptions of Barriers to Providing Contraception in Primary Care
Closely spaced pregnancies (<18 months apart) increase the likelihood of preterm delivery and low birth weight. With nearly half of American mothers reporting their pregnancies as unplanned, this study looked at clinician-reported barriers to improving pregnancy spacing. It found patient education is one of the leading concerns, as well as availability of devices, scheduling issues, and resident supervision.
Health and Access to Care among Reproductive-Age Women by Sexual Orientation and Pregnancy Status
Disparities in health and access to care among sexual minority populations are well-documented. But we know much less about the health care needs of pregnant sexual minority women. This study focuses on this population and the stressors, discrimination, and stigma they may face before and during pregnancy.
Ideology or Evidence? Examining the Population-Level Impact of US Government Funding to Prevent Adolescent Pregnancy
For nearly 40 years, the US government has supported abstinence-only education and recently the Administration’s FY 2020 budget proposal suggested eliminating the evidence-based Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program. This study found that while funding for sexual risk avoidance education is associated with an increase in state adolescent birthrates, TPP funding is associated with a decrease in those rates.
The Sexual Health Needs of Adolescent Boys Involved in a Pregnancy
This study highlights the distinct needs of fathers age 14-17. The paper discusses their sexual health needs and relationship characteristics and recommends their inclusion in prevention programs.
Women’s Concerns About Future Birth Control Access
Using data from the 2018 Survey of Family Planning and Women's Lives, this paper analyzes women's concerns about future birth control access.
Sex Before Age 13 Among Males in the United States
Males are more likely than females to have their first sexual intercourse before age 13. This study found that rates of sexual activity for this group varies by race/ethnicity, location, and maternal educational level.Mon, 29 Apr 2019 16:53:54 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2019-power-updates-editionAddressing Sexual and Reproductive Health on College Campuseshttps://powertodecide.org/news/addressing-sexual-and-reproductive-health-college-campuses
College campuses present a unique environment to address sexual and reproductive health with students. Campus life is saturated with students who are interested and engaged with movements that have been given a place in the national spotlight, such as the Me-Too movement, highlighting the pervasive culture of sexual assault on college campuses. Though with a following among academic, scientific, and some popular media outlets, the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) across the United States has yet to gain its own movement.
What makes campuses unique is not unlike what defines the American landscape when it comes to sexual health and education. Each state has regulations guiding the structure and implementation of sex (and in many cases abstinence-only) education models. What this means is that each student has different levels of knowledge about sex, consent, and STIs. Some could argue that this population is primed to have informed, meaningful discussions about sex and that the perfect place for sex education is college campuses. While we think you should start early and talk often, we are proud to support continuing conversations on college campuses.
Bedsider U seeks to listen to students, so that our programs can meet them where they are, while providing the tools to mobilize and activate existing campus communities. We aim to spark and encourage continuous action and dialogue among students on topics relating to sexual and reproductive health.
Recently, Coastal Carolina University hosted a table at the school’s annual Wellness Palooza. Students covered a chalkboard with reasons why they were thankful for birth control. Before the end of the day, the board was plastered with reasons ranging from “helps me manage my pain,” to “safer/healthier sex life.” Bedsider U Reps followed this event by passing out condoms and hosting a trivia on the lawn of the campus.
If you are a college student or in connection with campus organizations, we invite you to join the Bedsider U community to stay up to date with opportunities, news, and exclusive contests that encourage students to start and continue conversations and activities to address sexual and reproductive health on campuses around the country. You can find our community here.Wed, 24 Apr 2019 11:13:25 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/addressing-sexual-and-reproductive-health-college-campusesStarting the Conversation: #TalkingIsPower 2019https://powertodecide.org/news/starting-conversation-talkingispower-2019
A national effort to spark meaningful conversations between young people and the champions who care about them most, Talking Is Power month is approaching. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, educator, provider, or mentor to a young person, join the #TalkingIsPower movement.
Throughout the month of May, we will provide tools and resources to help ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. When you talk your young people listen. Let us help you to be the hero they need with two, easy steps.
Get Social
Use the Twitter hashtag #TalkingIsPower to see what others are saying and add your thoughts to the mix. Follow the Power to Decide and Bedsider accounts for more tips on talking to your young people about sex, love, and relationships.
You can also share one (or all) of these messages on your social accounts throughout the month of May to encourage your followers to get on board.
DYK: Young people actually prefer hearing about taboo topics like sex, love, and relationships from the adults they trust most? Learn more at https://bit.ly/2jwag8j #TalkingIsPower
Teen pregnancy is 100% preventable—especially when trusted adults and champions jumpstart meaningful conversations early on and often! Learn more here: https://bit.ly/2jwag8j #TalkingIsPower
Parents, trusted adults, mentors, champions: it’s never too late to start talking about sex, love, and relationships. our young people are listening—start talking today! More here: https://bit.ly/2jwag8j #TalkingIsPower
Get Talking
Whatever you do, talk to a young person! We’re counting on young adults, champions, and everyone in between to start talking. Conversations about sex, love, relationships, and future goals are key to preparing young people for the futures they envision for themselves.
To help you get started we’ve created a variety of content:
If you’re nervous or unsure about how to start talking with your young person, we’ve written a number of conversation prompts you can use to kick things off.
If your young person watches a lot of YouTube videos, try checking out our Talking is Power playlist together.
Or read blogs from different perspectives to broaden your own horizons before diving into a conversation with your young person.
Whether or not you believe it, you’re a very important influence on your young person’s life. So, start early and talk often. You’re more powerful than you think.Thu, 18 Apr 2019 10:13:52 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/starting-conversation-talkingispower-2019Reducing Disparities in Black Maternal Healthhttps://powertodecide.org/news/reducing-disparities-black-maternal-health
The United States has more pregnancy-related deaths than in most developed nations. In 2015, the maternal mortality rate increased from 17 deaths to 26 deaths per 100,000 live births. Although the numbers are alarming, the disparity in mortality rates for minority women are even more devastating, with black women being three to four times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related complication than their white counterparts. Pregnancy related deaths among African American women have accounted for 42 deaths per 100,000 live births versus 12 deaths per 100,000 live births among white women.
A variety of factors contribute to this disparity. One factor includes the lack of access to high-quality reproductive health services. For women living in poverty, pregnancy related deaths are significantly higher than the national average. Another major driver of maternal health disparities in the US is the association between non-communicable diseases and maternal mortality. Data suggests that the lack of access to prenatal care may be a contributor, as women who receive no prenatal care are three to four times more likely to have a pregnancy-related death than women who receive prenatal care. Notably, only 75 percent of all US women receive the recommended number of prenatal visits, however this even less among African Americans (68 percent) and American Indian or Alaska Native women (59 percent).
Potential solutions do exist to address the racial differences in maternal mortality rates but implementing these solutions may pose challenges. For communities of color maintaining a healthy pregnancy and delivery can mean the difference between life and death. The decision to implement systemic measures that can help save lives cannot come soon enough for women who may become pregnant. In fact, a truly comprehensive solution would begin with health care and service providers first engaging in meaningful conversations with women to understand their desire for pregnancy.
An improved understanding of women’s circumstances and challenges along with their reproductive health goals can help providers better address unmet needs. This may include culturally appropriate and patient-centered counseling on family planning, preconception health, or prenatal care. Whatever the path, the goal should be to work with women proactively. Encouraging conversations around pregnancy desire includes acknowledging that some women may not hold clear intentions regarding pregnancy (e.g., ambivalence) or have complex feelings about actively trying to get pregnant or avoiding pregnancy altogether.
For women who choose to delay pregnancy or ultimately decide not to get pregnant, we must also continue to ensure their access to birth control remains intact. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of the 6.1 million pregnancies that occur in the United States each year are unintended. For some of these women, access to birth control may have been limited or in some cases even non-existent. Today, women of color, young women living in poverty, and young women in rural areas are more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy. These disparities are due, in part, to the fact that more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts, counties in which there is not reasonable access to a health center that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.
Whether we’re encouraging women and providers to engage in more meaningful conversations about pregnancy desire or advocating for women’s access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services, our goal is always to ensure that women have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child by supporting and encouraging women to develop and use their sense of agency, we can help women live life on their own terms.Wed, 17 Apr 2019 09:57:50 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/reducing-disparities-black-maternal-healthU=U: What's the Risk?https://powertodecide.org/news/uu-whats-risk
People living with HIV often have questions about the risk of passing the virus to their negative partners. Good news--recent research has shown that patients who use antiretroviral medications to maintain consistently undetectable levels of HIV are effectively unable to transmit HIV to their sexual partners. Commonly referred to as “Undetectable = Untransmittable,” or U=U, HIV treatment as prevention (TasP) is gaining traction as a method of preventing new HIV cases.
As U=U has grown in popularity, the term has popped up outside of the exam room. For example, people with undetectable viral loads may include the abbreviations U=U, tasp, or [u+] in their dating profiles, to inform potential partners of their virally suppressed status.
Here are the basics on U=U:
How does U=U prevent HIV transmission?
If a person follows their medication regimen and has an undetectable HIV viral load, they have effectively no risk of passing the HIV virus to anyone through sex—oral, anal, or vaginal. To take it back to basics—once someone is infected with HIV, the virus begins multiplying in the body. HIV treatment stops the virus from multiplying, and ultimately suppresses the viral load so low that it is “undetectable.” This usually happens within one to six months on consistent treatment for most patients.
What’s the evidence for U=U?
Support for U=U comes predominantly from four studies: HPTN 052, PARTNER, PARTNER 2, and Opposites Attract. These studies followed male-male and male-female couples where one was HIV-positive and one was HIV-negative. The researchers across the studies found zero transmissions of HIV from the HIV-positive partner to the HIV-negative partner. In December 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began supporting HIV treatment as prevention.
For HIV to be untransmittable through sex, it’s important that:
1. To take medications exactly as prescribed.
Missing even a few doses of medication can increase the chances of passing an HIV infection to a sexual partner. So, it’s important to take these medications exactly as prescribed, every day for it to be effective. For U=U to successfully prevent the transmission of HIV, people need to be on HIV medications for at least seven months and their viral load needs to be undetectable for at least six consecutive months. Supporting people to take HIV medications can include using reminder apps and tapping into support networks. People do still need to check-in with a health care provider, usually every 3-6 months, even when their viral load is undetectable.
2. To remember that U=U does not prevent transmission of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or prevent pregnancy.
It can be easy to forget that treating HIV doesn’t reduce the chances of getting other STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis or prevent pregnancy. The best way to reduce the risk of STIs is to use condoms with all sex, which includes oral, vaginal, and anal sex.
Whether or not a person’s HIV viral load is undetectable, you can decrease the risk of HIV infection by using condoms every time you have sex, taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) as needed. U=U is an exciting addition to the current line-up of HIV transmission reduction strategies currently endorsed by the CDC. U=U can improve the sex lives of people living with HIV and their partners.
May is “Talking is Power Month.” If you are a champion to a young person make it count and talk to them about sex and STIs. Just by sharing information and your experience you can help them to make better, safer decisions.
Mari Lowe, NP-C, works as a family nurse practitioner in Washington, DC, serving in respite care and medical outreach for people experiencing homelessness. She previously spent several years incorporating sexual and reproductive health into primary care at Unity Health Care. In her free time, you’ll find her reading the latest non-fiction book or practicing yoga.Mon, 15 Apr 2019 10:40:39 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/uu-whats-riskBlack Women and Contraceptive Carehttps://powertodecide.org/news/black-women-and-contraceptive-care
Our struggles for civil and reproductive health rights have taught us many important lessons. The fight for reproductive justice is fundamentally about human rights, about placing dignity and self-determination in the hands of those who have had it denied to them. Although revisiting history can be painful, it can help ensure we do not repeat the harm done.
The eugenics movement of the 20th century is one such example. Eugenics is a set of beliefs and practices with the goal of controlling the reproduction of populations seen as “less desirable,” such as poor people, people of color, and immigrants. This has been achieved through coercive legislation mandating birth control, sterilization performed in unethical ways, and other oppressive means. Forced sterilization was legal in 32 states in the United States until the late 1970s. It was so common that black women in 1950s Mississippi (like civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer) called their involuntary hysterectomies a “Mississippi appendectomy.”
While egregious, overt practices such as these are now illegal, women of color and those with low incomes still often face biased reproductive health care that hinders their ability to make the decisions that are best for them. Medicine’s history of racial discrimination has resulted in black and brown women’s mistrust of providers, which compounds health disparities that already exist. Implicit bias can lead some providers to make harmful assumptions about women’s reproductive health care needs.
Some of the ways this bias plays out include promoting certain methods over all others, expecting reproductive decision making at vulnerable times, and delivering care with a negative tone:
Promoting Certain Methods of Birth Control Over All Others
Women of color need access to information about the full range of contraceptives. IUDs and implants have been rightfully touted by the medical community for their effectiveness and ease of use. However, it is important to remember the historical reasons women of color might be reluctant to use them, as they are dependent on a provider for removal.
Contraceptive counseling needs to be centered on the woman and her individual needs and desires rather than on the dimension of effectiveness alone. Someone may have misgivings about the side effects of a particular method of birth control, or they may prefer one they can control themselves. Whatever their reason, they deserve the power to decide for themselves.
Prompting Reproductive Decision Making at Vulnerable Times
The timing of discussions about birth control can affect the way women of color perceive the information and the motivations of the provider. Timing is the difference between asking a new mother about her birth control method while she is still groggy from anesthesia or at an earlier prenatal visit or later at a follow-up appointment. Ill-timed questions about birth control may cause women of color to mistrust their providers’ intent.
Delivering Care with a Negative Tone
The tone in which information is delivered also matters. An overbearing or condescending provider can cause a woman to doubt her intentions for her own body. If a young person feels guilted, shamed, or pushed into using birth control by the person they look to for unbiased health information, they are being disempowered and mistrust is reinforced.
Doing Better
Women of color should always be in the drivers’ seat of their reproductive well-being in all clinical interactions. That means giving them the full range of information and trusting them to make the best decisions for themselves. It means centering their goals, listening, and respecting them and their plans for their lives.
Power to Decide's vision is to help empower all young people to be able to decide when, if, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. We do this by connecting them with knowledge about various birth control methods, resources, and other tools they need to make informed choices.
Women of color who need further support in making reproductive health choices can reach out to organizations and programs such as SisterSong, the #TrustBlackWomen project, Planned Parenthood, and the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health. Find out other ways you can stand up for reproductive justice by visiting our Activation Page. Thu, 11 Apr 2019 12:40:48 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/black-women-and-contraceptive-careApril 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2019-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Niki Graham, MPH
Community Research Associate at University of Montana - School of Public and Community Health Sciences
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
For the past 14 years, I have worked across all age groups within my community, giving various presentations on sexual health, reproductive health, HIV, and STIs. To reach the youth of a tribal community you have to receive the approval of the elders. By establishing trust with them and receiving their approval, the sky is truly the limit. Most recently, I’ve spoken to area high school students in their health courses. I may have a reputation as "condom lady" however, I leave a lasting impression on my participants with an interactive activity using chemicals to “infect” them diseases. I have fun with my presentations, but ultimately, my goal is to be an approachable adult that high school students can trust with their questions and count on for solid advice on how to navigate the health system.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I studied Health Enhancement and have a K-12 teaching certificate. I've always wanted to work in the health field, but it wasn't until my third year in college that I decided not to become a physician. I wanted to teach people to be healthy, not see them as they died. I changed my major and became an educator. I taught in Montana and Nevada for 5 years before returning to my home reservation in Montana in 2004. When I returned home, I couldn’t find a job in any area schools and applied for a position with our tribal college, Salish Kootenai College. As the only applicant who knew how to define HIV, I got the job. While funded completely by grants, I learned to survive on a little from funders across our nation. I became the Director of the Center for Prevention and Wellness where I still serve as a mentor and co-coordinator of the largest health fair in our region.
Internally, my driving force is the health of our youth. In my community, we struggle with substance use, suicides, lack of family structure, loss of traditional ways, and cultural togetherness, on top of poverty. People are trying to survive, yet we don't always provide the proper tools for survival. I hope that I'm a tool that people trust and will remember as they go on their journey.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
My advice to someone looking to create a space for positive change is to be patient and get the right people involved. You may get tired and want to give up at times, DON'T! You need to build your community by identifying people who will hold you accountable and offer accolades as you grow and learn. It is okay to fall and struggle, but you never fail if you learn from your experience.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Visit the communities I work in and look around. If parents had access to services, information, and contraception, how many of our struggles would exist? The community knows and understands, but again . . . they are trying to survive, and personal health is not a priority compared to keeping a roof over your head or filling your stomach.
I do believe we need creative messages to reach youths. It’s a new skill set that many public health employees are completely blinded to. There is a strong need to better understand our future generations and the technology they have at their fingertips.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
I feel like I have the best job in the world. I create and sustain relationships with community members, tribal leadership, and academia while raising my children and maintaining a 23-year long marriage. I believe my role as a Community Research Associate allows tribal communities the opportunity to see the future and to address daily struggles while working towards a healthier community for generations to come. I'm not perfect, but I know that I make an impact when I'm approached by our tribal elders and thanked for the work I do. I wouldn't be able to do the work I do without amazing support from the University of Montana School of Public and Community Health Sciences.Mon, 08 Apr 2019 12:10:39 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/april-2019-power-playerThe Intersection of Public Health and Contraceptive Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/intersection-public-health-and-contraceptive-access
Power to Decide proudly stands alongside organizations and communities nationwide celebrating National Public Health Week. It is a time to celebrate the countless contributions public health has made to the well-being of each and every individual, and to be steely eyed about the challenges that remain in making this nation healthier. Organized by the American Public Health Association, this year National Public Health Week highlights three areas where Power to Decide works to improve the lives of young people; healthy communities, rural health, and technology and public health.
Making Communities Healthier
Our work at Power to Decide provides the opportunity for young people to get informed, take control of their reproductive health, advocate for themselves, and protect the amazing life opportunities that lie ahead. But young people are not an island, and they cannot build their futures on their own. The communities we live in shape our health and well-being. Where we live matters as much as how we live.
Nearly nine in 10 American adults agree that birth control is a basic part of women’s health care and we know that when people have the ability to make decisions about their reproductive well-being, our communities benefit. Providing a system of support that enables young people to have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child not only benefits the young people themselves, but also leads to significant savings in publicly funded programs. These savings, along with improved maternal and infant health, as well as the prospect of increased economic and educational opportunities all stem from the ability to live an informed life and all make for healthier, happier communities.
Improving Rural Health
In 2010 (the most recent data available by county), the teen birth rate in rural counties was nearly one-third higher than in the rest of the country, and rates in rural areas have fallen more slowly than rates in non-rural ones. Our research (Sex in the (Non) City) shows that this is directly related to the fact that teens in rural areas are more likely to have had sex and less likely have used birth control than their city-dwelling peers. Compounding this problem, more than 19 million US women, many of whom live in rural areas, do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. They live in what we call contraceptive deserts. For young people who want to avoid pregnancy, living in a contraceptive desert creates a significant roadblock on the path to opportunity.
These facts fit into a larger picture of the health of people who live in rural areas. They face a number of health disparities compared to those who live in urban areas; they’re more likely to have a higher burden of chronic disease, more likely to have limited access to primary care and prevention services, and more likely to face other social determinants of health such as poverty.
Connecting Technology and Public Health
Technology, and telemedicine in particular, is helping many Americans expand their access to care. Bedsider, our online birth control support network, welcomes nine million visitors annually and has been shown to help women avoid unintended pregnancies. When health care access is limited because of distance, finances, or any other reason, telemedicine services can help young people deal with some conditions and needs without leaving home. Which is why—as part of our Contraceptive Access Fund—we’ve partnered with telemedicine companies to ship a year’s worth of birth control to a woman’s door for just $40. Initially launching in the first half of 2019 in select areas across the nation, the Contraceptive Access Fund will offer women living at or up to 250 percent of the federal poverty level access to transportation offsets for clinic appointments, reimbursement for contraception cost, no or low-cost options to access birth control, and reimbursement for child care and unpaid time off to attend clinic appointments.
Because that’s what we’re committed to; no matter who they are or where they live—we want women to have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child by providing accessible information about birth control and lowering the barriers they face in getting the contraceptives that will work best for them.Wed, 03 Apr 2019 10:45:20 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/intersection-public-health-and-contraceptive-accessMarch 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are seven stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Shifting the Paradigm in HIV Prevention and Treatment Service Delivery Toward Differentiated Care for Youth
In general, tremendous progress has been made in preventing and treating HIV and AIDS in the United States. However, not all HIV services fit every patient’s needs and as a result, new diagnoses are increasing among racial, ethnic, and sexual minority young adults. To address these disparities, an innovative, differentiated care framework specific to the young adults most at-risk for contracting HIV is presented.
The Process of Becoming a Sexual Black Woman: A Grounded Theory Study
Last year the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data showing that STI rates are climbing across the country, but black women are contracting STIs (including HIV) at a disproportionate rate to women of other races and ethnicities. This paper identified three stages of sexual identity and discusses how future research must study the experiences of black women under age 18.
Why Is It So Hard to Have Honest Conversations About Sex?
Two sex educators, Emily Nagoski and Dominick Quartuccio, speak to NPR in this piece on where we learn about sex and how those experiences influence our future behaviors.
Women Call for More Education, Contraceptive Choices to Prevent Unplanned Pregnancy
Between 1991 and 2017 the teen birth rate fell by a historic 70 percent. This follows a broader trend in a decrease in the number of unplanned pregnancies across the country. Compared to other developed countries, however, the United States still has a high number of unplanned births, which affects women’s lives in numerous ways. This feature covers some of the reasons why women want to avoid an unplanned pregnancy and how life experiences can impact awareness and opinions about pregnancy prevention.
The Misclassification of Ambivalence in Pregnancy Intentions: A Mixed‐Methods Analysis
Frequently, measures of pregnancy intent fail to describe the intricacies of pregnancy desire and ineffectively account for the varied experiences of young people. This analysis looks at the nuances of pregnancy ambivalence and how current measures attempt to capture this complex concept.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Severe Maternal Morbidity Prevalence and Trends
While data show there are notable racial and ethnic disparities in the maternal morbidity rate in the United States, we do not know much about how disparities are changing or what factors play a significant role in their existence. Findings from this California study that examined prevalence and trend data suggest variation by race/ethnicity but found that a number of factors including, comorbidities and cesarean birth did not fully explain the disparities in severe maternal morbidity.
Country‐Level Gender Equality and Adolescents’ Contraceptive Use in Europe, Canada and Israel: Findings from 33 Countries
Although research has supported the link between birth control usage and gender equality in adults, more information is needed to see whether this association persists among young people. This study looked at 33 countries, including Canada, and found that while there is also a connection for young people, it’s not yet clear how gender equality and adolescent contraceptive use influence one another.Fri, 29 Mar 2019 09:11:08 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2019-power-updates-editionMore Than “Filling a Void”: Addressing Systemic Barriers to Reproductive Health for Youth in LA’s Foster Care Systemhttps://powertodecide.org/news/more-filling-void-addressing-systemic-barriers-reproductive-health-for-youth-las-foster-care
Upon entry to the foster care system, Belinda* was brought to a group home. During intake, they confiscated the condoms and birth control pills in her bag, noting they were contraband and not allowed.
Soon after, Belinda realized she needed emergency contraception, which is most effective when taken within five days of unprotected sex. Needing transportation and permission to leave the facility, she asked her housing manager to make her an appointment at a local clinic. The manager refused, saying that this violated their policy. They did agree to bring her to a different doctor, but she didn’t get the appointment for four weeks.
Belinda ended up pregnant.
Nationally, teen pregnancy rates are at historic lows – largely attributable to increased access to contraceptives and comprehensive and medically-accurate sexual health education. However, this trend is not true for young people in the child welfare system. By the age of 19, youth in foster care in California are two and a half times more likely to experience pregnancy and childbirth than their non foster care peers. In a county like Los Angeles (home to the largest child welfare system in the nation; a system disproportionately comprised of Black and Latinx young people) this issue is particularly complex.
Predominant stereotypes about pregnancy and youth in foster care center on what I call the “fill a void” narrative (e.g., “Those youth are just trying to create the family they didn’t have!” and “They want someone to love and to love them unconditionally!”) Like many stereotypes, this ignores recent research that highlights a sobering – and critical! – fact: more than two-thirds of youth in foster care in California who have been pregnant (or gotten a partner pregnant) do not describe those pregnancies as intended or wanted. The “filling a void” story is an easy way for people in power to ignore the systemic issues that prevent two-thirds of young people in California’s foster care system – mostly young people of color – around having the power to decide when, if, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
Victoria* became pregnant at 16. While at a doctor’s appointment, the health care provider told Victoria’s foster parent without her permission.
While not planned, she decided she wanted this baby. Her foster parent told her that if she had a baby while in foster care, the child welfare system would take the baby away.
Victoria decided to run. She lived on the street and chose not to get prenatal care because she was sure that the health care system would not honor her confidentiality and would report her. At 32 weeks, she ended up giving birth to a stillborn baby boy on a bathroom floor.
In the hospital, she learned that prenatal care would have prevented the tragedy.
For decades, the leadership team for the Los Angeles Reproductive Health Equity Project for Foster Youth (LA RHEP) has represented, advocated for, litigated on behalf of, provided services to, and amplified the voices of thousands of young people in Los Angeles’ foster care system. Young people who look like Victoria and Belinda. Young people who may have missed sex education due to frequent caregiver and school changes, are too embarrassed to ask their caregiver for help scheduling a sexual health doctor appointment, or are coerced into a particular birth control method or none at all. Young people who, while dealing with trauma, are tasked with navigating a complicated ecosystem in which the dozens of adult professionals are experiencing “diffusion of responsibility,” or to put it simply: everyone thinks that its someone else’s job to support the healthy sexual development of youth in care.
LA RHEP brought our leadership team together to work towards sustainable, population-level change, in partnership with impacted young people. A private-public collective impact campaign, LA RHEP intends to dismantle the systemic barriers that impede youth in Los Angeles County foster care from accessing sexual and reproductive health care and exercising their rights. We aim to significantly reduce the inequitable reproductive health outcomes and experiences that disproportionately impact youth in foster care, including high rates of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, obstruction of access to care, and lack of sexual health education. My organization, the National Center for Youth Law, plays the coordinating role for LA RHEP. We want to center the agency of young people and ensure they have the information and power they need in order to realize their own choices – whatever those choices may be.
We understand and acknowledge that because sexual and reproductive health intersects in complex ways with many systems, working toward sustained and meaningful change requires a strategy that engages our heads, hearts, and hands:
“HEAD” | LA RHEP works shoulder-to-shoulder with our child welfare partners to support implementation of the California Foster Youth Sexual Health Education Act in an effort to ensure that all young people in Los Angeles’ foster care system know their sexual and reproductive health rights, have access to care, and obtain comprehensive sexual health education in school.
“HEART” | LA RHEP engages an active Youth Advisory Board to inform our work in all areas, to center the lived experiences, voices, and expertise of young people, and to engage in narrative-change work that focuses on system change instead of individual blame.
“HANDS” | Trauma-informed and culturally-responsive education and training opportunities are a key strategy to increasing local capacity to support the reproductive health of young people. LA RHEP provides and/or evaluates sexual health education for social workers, foster caregivers, members of the juvenile court system, health care providers, and young people themselves – and we share our learnings with the field.
This work – particularly the focus on shifting harmful beliefs about what it means to support young peoples’ reproductive health – is personal for me, as a Black mama to two young boys. I will never forget sinking deep into my chair when my undergraduate adolescent development professor proclaimed that Black girls were disproportionately more likely to experience teen pregnancy because we were “seeking comfort and escape from the hopelessness of living in the ghetto.”
Until we stop blaming and shaming young people without addressing the structural drivers of inequity that create the conditions that obstruct youth in foster care from making their own informed decisions about their own bodies and reproductive lives – we will miss critical opportunities to amplify the voices of the most impacted and create meaningful and sustained change.
*Not her real name
At the National Center for Youth Law, Lesli LeGras Morris directs the LA Reproductive Health Equity Project for Foster Youth, a collective impact campaign with the audacious goal of dismantling systemic barriers that prevent youth in LA’s foster care system from taking ownership of their reproductive decisions. LeGras Morris’ laser focus on galvanizing collective commitment to promoting equity for marginalized young people is driven by her lived experiences as a Black womxn, born-and-bred resident of South LA, and mother to a joyful infant and vivacious preschooler.Wed, 27 Mar 2019 09:58:15 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/more-filling-void-addressing-systemic-barriers-reproductive-health-for-youth-las-foster-careThe Vote & the Right to Access Contraceptionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/vote-right-access-contraception
“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal.” – “The Declaration of Rights and Sentiments” – (1848).
Passed by Congress in 1919 and ratified by the states in only a year, the 19th Amendment reads, “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex.” Less than three months after women officially gained the right to vote more than 8 million across America voted in elections for the first time.
Over the last 100 years, women have fought for equality on many fronts and have broken many barriers. The feminist movement began with women’s suffrage and it continues into 2019. As we continue to fight for equal rights, let’s look back on how gaining the right to vote helped women progress to today.
Upon the passage of the 19th Amendment, women gained acceptance into the public sphere of society and the ability to participate as full citizens. Following this, state-granted rights finally allowed women to own property and legally be their own person, separate from their husbands. While white women were left at home and participated in the public sphere we cannot forget that enslaved people, immigrants, and lower-class women did not have the same experience.
Suffrage laid the roots for women to expand their professional abilities, have access to higher education, fight for fairer wages, and expand their reproductive rights. These changes bloomed with second wave feminism in the 1960s, which fought for equal representation for women in the work force. Women broke into previously male dominated fields such as medicine, law, and politics. The question of birth control and family planning became a top priority for many women as they strove to achieve high career goals while also being a mother.
Reproductive health and family planning became the top policy issue for advocates to take on in the second wave as more women went to college and entered the work force full-time. In the 1960s, the Food and Drug Administration approved the birth control pill, which allowed many women to plan if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. In 1965, the US Supreme Court ruled that married couples could use birth control in Griswold v. Connecticut. This ruling paved the wave for reproductive freedoms and birth control legalization to extend to unmarried women, as happened after Eisenstadt v. Baird. In 1970, Congress passed Title X of the Public Health Service Act, which granted federal fund coverage to family planning programs. These programs included contraception which allowed women access to the pill at an affordable cost.
By 1974, most states passed laws allowing women age 17 or 18 to access the pill without parental consent. According to a study conducted by the Guttmacher Institute in 2013, these landmark Supreme Court decisions, along with FDA approval of the pill, helped women complete higher education, join the workforce, and climb the professional ladder.
Birth control has helped women smash glass ceilings in their personal and professional lives. The legalization of birth control could not have happened without the passage of the 19th Amendment bringing women into the public sphere and expanding their rights and responsibilities in society.
During Women’s History Month, we reflect on how far we have come. Without the remarkable, trailblazing women of the late 1800s and early 1900s such as Lucretia Mott, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Ida B. Wells, Alice Paul, and Carrie Chapman Catt, the 19th Amendment would not have passed. These women, along with the thousands of powerful suffragists of their day laid the groundwork and created a path leading toward equality for women.
We have come a long way, but progress is not victory. While we remember the women who championed feminist ideals and pushed boundaries, we must keep pushing forward. On February 22, 2019, the Trump Administration published the final rule on the Domestic Gag Rule that will force clinics that have received Title X funds in the past not to take those funds and possibly close, leaving people who depend on those clinics without the care they need. The rule would also block providers at Title X clinics from giving their patients information and referrals for abortion care. Four million people rely on Title X and are in jeopardy of losing their access to essential health services and contraception.
We need your help! As Women’s History Month closes share your birth control story and tell us what birth control means to you. Your stories will help us to highlight the continued importance of birth control access for everyone and the role birth control plays in giving all young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Mon, 25 Mar 2019 09:25:36 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/vote-right-access-contraceptionCelebrating the Ninth Anniversary of the Affordable Care Acthttps://powertodecide.org/news/celebrating-ninth-anniversary-affordable-care-act
In 2010, Instagram was born, South Africa introduced us to the buzzing sound of vuvuzelas, and Lady Gaga wore a meat dress. It was also the year that President Obama signed landmark legislation on healthcare—the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, or ACA for short—into law.
Fast forward nine years and Instagram has spawned a generation of influencers, some citizens are asking their government to ban vuvuzelas, and Lady Gaga has dropped the meat suit for a more glamorous image. A lot has changed in the world, but the ACA is still the law of the land. True, it has suffered trials (on birth control and more) and tribulations, but the ACA is still standing tall and so is no co-pay birth control coverage! This week we are celebrating the ACA’s ninth anniversary, and we want you to join us!
Join the Twitter storm & spread the word.
The ACA is still in effect, but there’s a decent chance you might have a friend or family member who doesn’t know this or is confused about its current status. Of course, it doesn’t help that the House tried to repeal the law more than 60 times. In 2017, Congress did repeal one component of the law, the individual mandate, which required people to have health insurance or pay a penalty on their federal taxes.
Join the Raising Women’s Voices for Health Care We Need Tweet Storm on Thursday, March 21st from 3-4 pm Eastern (we’re official partners) to show the ACA some love for all the protections and benefits it provides. Use the hashtag #WinningWithTheACA (but not before 3pm ET) to share how you’ve benefitted from the ACA’s coverage and protections. This includes no co-pay coverage for women’s preventive health services like birth control, the ability to stay on your parent’s insurance up to age 26, protections for pre-existing conditions, and much more.
Get the care you deserve, without having to swipe your credit card at the doctor’s office.
After you’re done celebrating, make sure you are using the benefits that come with your coverage. Because of the ACA, 62.8 million women have access to an array of preventive health services, without any extra costs. Zero. I’m talking well women visits; contraception, counseling, and follow-up care; counseling for STIs; screening for HIV, breast cancer, and interpersonal violence; breastfeeding services, and support and more. For the complete list of covered preventive services, visit Care Women Deserve. And don’t forget the men in your life. Share with them what is (and isn’t covered) when it comes to men’s sexual health.
If you or someone you know, are currently without health insurance, you may be eligible for coverage through Medicaid. Enrollment in a private insurance plan through the marketplace is generally only available during open enrollment, which begins in the fall. Check to see if you have experienced a qualifying life event that makes you eligible for a special enrollment period.Thu, 21 Mar 2019 10:27:51 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/celebrating-ninth-anniversary-affordable-care-actOrigins of the Women’s Health Movementhttps://powertodecide.org/news/origins-womens-health-movement
In honor of National Women’s History Month, we’re taking a deep dive into the origins of the Women’s Health Movement and the impact that it’s had on women’s ability to access birth control and take charge of their reproductive lives. Broadly speaking, the Women’s Heath Movement refers to the social movement that emerged in the late 1960s and early 1970s in conjunction with the second wave of the feminist movement centered on improving health care for all women. It’s pictures of Shirley Chisholm flashing peace signs and women in linking arms and marching to demand equality at home, in the workplace, and on the street.
While some argue that the women’s health movement emerged in the early 20th Century with the rise of Margaret Sanger and the founding of Planned Parenthood, the contemporary women’s health movement is associated with the mobilization of women encouraging other women to get in touch with their bodies. This call led to the publication of Our Bodies, Ourselves in 1970, the passage of Roe v. Wade in 1973, and the founding of the National Women’s Health Network in 1975, which continues to serve as one of the leading women’s health organizations in the US.
Although the origins of the women’s health movement focused on sexual health and abortion, it quickly shifted to focus on other areas related to women’s health with the underlying goal of challenging the sexism inherent in the contemporary health system. For example, this sexism results in doctors not taking women’s pain either being dismissed or not taken as seriously as their male counterparts. During the 1980s and 1990s, key political and nonprofit organizations such as the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues and the Jacobs Institute of Health worked and achieved significant gains for women’s health in the world of federal policy Some of these strides include the inclusion of women in beginning stages of drug trials, recognition of the impact of violence against women, and the development of new contraceptive technologies, such as the implant and the IUD.
In the contemporary political climate, the women’s health movement continues to play and important and critical role. It was crucial in ensuring that contraception was defined as an essential health benefit under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Under the ACA, individuals now have access to all FDA-approved birth control methods with no out-of-pocket costs.
With the impending threat of the domestic gag rule, the women’s health movement is more important than ever. The rule, which will soon go into effect, is expected to limit a provider’s ability to provide quality care to those who need it most. Currently, we can expect that over 40 percent of patients who visit health centers that rely on money from this program, will lose coverage as their providers leave the program.
But all is not lost. Here are three things you can do to help:
Tell us your story. We want to know why you believe birth control access is so important and we want to hear about the difference that it’s made in your life. Remind the country how access to birth control changed the game for women and help change minds.
Get informed about the Title X Family Planning Program. According to a survey we conducted, 75 percent of adults favor continuing the Title X Program.
Understand why the vast majority of adults believe that birth control should be considered a basic part of women’s health care. This belief transcends age, ethnicity, region, and political affiliation.
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 11:36:14 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/origins-womens-health-movementWomen’s History Month: The Untold Stories of Public Health Heroineshttps://powertodecide.org/news/womens-history-month-untold-stories-public-health-heroines
Women have made monumental strides to help shape our nation—many of which are often overlooked. One way to acknowledge the many contributions women have made to American history is to celebrate them during Women’s History Month. Here, we honor a unique set of women who pioneered efforts to improve the world of health, science, medicine, politics, and more with tremendous dedication and passion.
1. Barbara Mikulski, Longest Serving US Congresswoman
Former Maryland Senator Barbara Mikulski is the longest-serving woman in the history of Congress. She has always dedicated her life to improving public health, specifically in her hometown of Baltimore. She started her career as a social worker advocating for women’s issues such as equal pay, advancing health care for and medical research on women, and subsidizing child-care for low-income families. Senator Mikulski won her first election to the Baltimore City Council in 1971, and five years later, won a seat in the US House of Representatives. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1986, Senator Mikulski became the second woman in the nation’s history to serve in both chambers. She was re-elected with large majorities in 1992, 1998, 2004, and 2010 before retiring after her fifth term.
Senator Mikulski played a major role in initiating Women’s History Month. According to the National Women’s History Alliance, she co-sponsored the first Joint Congressional Resolution proclaiming a Women’s History Week in 1981. Congress passed the resolution designating the week of March 7, 1982 as “Women’s History Week.” In 1987, after being petitioned by the National Women’s History Project, Congress passed an additional proclamation which designated the month of March 1987 as “Women’s History Month.” Since then a series of annual proclamations have kept Women’s History Month afloat.
2. Dr. Ruth Westheimer, Sex Educator
Before we fell in love with Dr. Drew’s, “Loveline,” there was Dr. Ruth’s, “Sexually Speaking.” A question-and-answer radio show, it removed the stigma associated with broadcasting discussions about sex and sexuality on the airwaves. Though the show had instant success, it’s only a small victory in Dr. Ruth’s life. After fleeing to Switzerland to escape the Holocaust she trained for the Israeli freedom fighters as a scout and sniper. She then moved to Paris to study psychology at the Sorbonne. Later Dr. Ruth found herself in Harlem, NY where she took a job with Planned Parenthood that led her to study sexuality and advocate for sex education. Dr. Ruth has gone on to host her own TV show, write a syndicated newspaper column, author 35+ books, and maintain her own website and Twitter following.
3. Senator Patty Murray, US Senator, Washington State
In Washington state, Senator Patty Murray is known as the “mom in tennis shoes.” In Washington DC, she’s known as the highest ranking woman in the US Senate. Senator Murray is the Democratic leader on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, where she is a tireless advocate on women’s health issues. She leads the fight to protect women’s reproductive rights, ensure women have access to health care, and guard care for people with pre-existing conditions. Senator Murray credits her hard work and dedication on these issues to her mother, noted for raising seven children all while working and caring for her father after he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. “My mother is an inspiration to me every day,” says Murray in a statement to Power to Decide. “She made sure we were strong enough to stand up for what we believe in. I’m always fighting to make sure women like her have the support they need to keep themselves and their families healthy, secure, and able to reach for new opportunities.”
4. Henrietta Lacks, African-American Medical Patient and Human Cell Donor
In January of 1951, 31-year-old Henrietta Lacks went to Johns Hopkins Hospital with abdominal pain and bleeding. She was quickly diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer. While receiving treatment, a doctor removed cells from Lacks’ cervix without her knowledge. Her cells, later nicknamed “HeLa,” would go on to contribute to significant advances in scientific and medical research ranging from determining the long-term effects of cancer treatments to the development of vaccines. Since Henrietta’s death on October 4, 1951, the Lacks family has fought in court to remain in control of the immortal line of HeLa cells. Created in her honor, the Henrietta Lacks Foundation helps other patients who have experienced hardships in the medical industry related to consent, racial disparities, and access to health care and research benefits.
5. Eveline Shen, Executive Director and Board President, Forward Together
Eveline Shen is the Executive Director and Board President of Forward Together (formerly Asian Communities for Reproductive Justice). Forward Together is widely recognized for leading the Strong Families Initiative, which handles issues surrounding gender-based violence, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive justice, and immigrant rights within Asian-American communities. As an advocate for Asian-American and Pacific Islander reproductive justice, Eveline has also served as Principal Investigator for two National Institutes of Health grants to explore the relationship between environmental justice and reproductive justice. Eveline has led Forward Together into the reproductive justice movement by utilizing grassroots community building; providing thought leadership; developing tools and resources for evaluation, implementation, and documentation; and creating long-term systemic change.
6. Nancy Miriam Hawley, Author and Activist
Nancy Miriam Hawley helped found Our Bodies Ourselves (formerly the Boston Women’s Health Book Collective), an organization that empowers women to take control of their own health and wellness. Nancy’s postnatal experiences following the birth of her first son drove her to advocate for women’s health. During Nancy’s six-week checkup, her doctor recommended she try a new birth control pill. She then questioned the pill’s ingredients and her request for additional information was immediately rejected. Nancy refused to take the pill and decided to search for her own answers, which in return transformed into the first workshop at Emmanuel College (Boston) on women and their bodies—a workshop she led. The workshop eventually grew into a nonprofit advocating for women’s health and social justice as well as a best-selling book, "Our Bodies, Ourselves," which has sold over 4.5 million copies.
7. Kim Schrier, MD, US Representative, Washington State
Dr. Kim Schrier, MD, is the first pediatrician and only female doctor in Congress. She decided to step out of the doctor’s office and run for Congress because she believed she could help more children and families from Congress than she could in the confines of the exam room. The relentless attacks on health care and threats to people with pre-existing conditions motivated her to run for Congress. She presently represents Washington’s 8th congressional district and is focused on making health care more affordable and accessible for everyone in this country, bringing down the cost of prescription drugs, and being a tireless advocate for women’s reproductive freedoms.
8. Jessica Gonzáles-Rojas , Executive Director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health
Jessica Gonzáles-Rojas is the Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health (NLIRH), an organization that advocates for access to affordable health and reproductive care for Latinx communities. She breaks down cultural barriers that inhibit Latina women from speaking out about biases surrounding reproductive healthcare, gender and sexuality, immigration, and civil rights. Jessica voices her platform through national and local media outlets including the New York Times, the Daily Beast, and Huffington Post. Jessica and NLIRH have been honored for their work by several organizations, including LatinoJustice PRLDEF’s “Latina Trailblazer” in 2016, the National Council of Jewish Women as a “Champion for Choice” in 2013, and LATISM as 2013’s “Best Non-Profit.” Today, Jessica continues to represent the Latinx community by speaking out on behalf of the National Latina Institute at national conferences and congressional briefings.
9. Michelle Owens, MD, Certified OB-GYN
Dr. Michelle Owens, MD, is a practicing OB-GYN and associate professor for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). Her passion for improving the well-being of all Mississippians—especially women and girls—inspired her decision to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology and maternal fetal medicine. Dr. Owens holds many leadership roles at UMMC, including interim chair and vice-chair of OB-GYN, medical director of Wiser Hospital for Women and Infants, and associate fellowship director in maternal fetal medicine. Outside of her UMMC association, Dr. Owens also serves on the executive board of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Mon, 18 Mar 2019 12:01:51 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/womens-history-month-untold-stories-public-health-heroinesWhy I Need Accesshttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-i-need-access
I started using birth control to control the unbearable cramps that came every month alongside my period. Born in 1990, and raised in a liberal, middle-class household, I never worried about where my birth control would come from or if my parents would approve of my choices. But I recognize the privilege of my experience. Most women in history, and a great many women today, have had only limited options, if any, to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
In Ancient Egypt women used honey, acacia leaves, and lint to block sperm from entering the vagina. In Ancient Greece, the philosopher Aristotle suggested using cedar oil before sex to prevent pregnancy. In 12th century India, a variety of potions made of herbs and other plants such as honey, ghee, rock salt, and tree seeds were thought to do the trick. Examples of these ridiculous birth control “methods” make us laugh at how little ancient people understood about the human body.
But don’t assume that just because they made some mistakes that they knew nothing. Archeologists have found a picture of a man using a condom in a French cave painting created 12,000-15,000 years ago. In the Bible, the Book of Genesis refers to the pull out method. Most women in Europe during the Middle Ages are said to have known of herbs that could induce abortion during early pregnancy.
Knowing how to prevent an unplanned pregnancy and having the agency to actually do so are two different things though. The average woman had between seven and 10 children in 1790. During the Civil War period around 200 of every 1,000 babies born died before their first birthday. In 1900, 850 out of every 100,000 women died during pregnancy or after giving birth.
Yet the Comstock Act outlawed all “obscene materials” in 1873, including contraceptives. In 1916, Margaret Sanger opened a birth control clinic in Brooklyn, the first such clinic in the United States. For her efforts she was arrested and became the first woman in America to be force-fed due to a hunger strike. Without access to effective methods of contraception women had limited means to choose when and how many children to have in their lifetime.
Slowly things began to change, first as the Food and Drug Administration approved the first oral contraceptive and then as married couples earned the right use birth control in 1965 through the Supreme Court. The Court later gave unmarried people legal access to preventative birth control methods in 1972.
The number of birth control options open to women increased with the invention of the IUD and the implant, and in the early 2000’s new methods like the patch and ring joined them. In fact, there are 18 different categories of FDA approved contraceptive methods. According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 65 percent of women now use a method of contraception, an increase from 61.1 percent during the previous survey period between 2011-2015.
But on February 22, the Trump Administration released a final rule—commonly referred to as the “Domestic Gag Rule”—for Title X. It will cause many clinics that have received Title X funds in the past to not be able to take those funds and possibly to close, leaving people who depend on those clinics without the care they need.
Already, more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts, counties in which there is not reasonable access to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. This new rule will undoubtedly worsen their challenge and make accessing birth control and other vital reproductive health services for the most marginalized women even more difficult.
Our country has made great progress in making the lives of women healthier, safer, and more equal. But as we honor Women’s History Month, it’s important to remember that progress isn’t victory. All women deserve access to the reproductive health care they need and restricting access to birth control options limits women’s ability to make the decisions best for them. Legal challenges to this rule have already begun, but you can still help too. Share your birth control story with us. We want to know why access to birth control and the full range of reproductive health matters to you? What it has made possible for you? Your stories will help us to highlight the continued importance of birth control access for everyone and the role it plays in giving all young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.Thu, 14 Mar 2019 11:45:14 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-i-need-accessMarch 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2019-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Meika Hollender
Co-Founder + CEO, Sustain Natural
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
In 2018 I wrote my first book, Get on Top, which is sex-positive sex-ed for millennial women. The book covers everything from how to have an orgasm to a guide to birth control options, and its mission was to start a conversation about real, straight-forward, sex positive sexual and reproductive health so that women could feel more empowered to take care of their bodies.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I saw two major opportunities - first, in all other categories, women were demanding safer products, from food to cosmetics, but for the most intimate of products, the ones going inside of our vaginas, there weren't safer, more natural options. Additionally, sexual wellness products have been forever made by men and marketed to men. What about women? Women buy 40% of condoms but have been completely neglected by the category.
I founded Sustain because I am dedicated to change all this. To empower women to take control of their sexual and reproductive health with better, more natural products.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Be bold, and have courage. Working in this space is challenging and comes with a lot of haters. In order to make waves in this space, you need to be willing to be bold and relentless.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Because women’s sexual and reproductive health is a basic human right, not a privilege.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
Of course. My background, primarily, has been in founding and building the first brand of natural sexual wellness products, Sustain Natural, over the last few years. Sustain started as a line of natural/sustainable condoms focused on women, and has expanded into a line of vagina-friendly vagina essentials (condoms, lube, tampons, and beyond). Our mission is to empower women to take control of their sexual and reproductive health. Through building Sustain, I have spoken with thousands of women in person, and even more online. Over time I started to notice a common thread of women coming to me to ask really basic health issues around sexual and reproductive health. Then, about two years ago, I launched a national campaign called “Get On Top,” which was aimed at getting young women to pledge to practice safe sex, and for every pledge we donated a condom to Power to Decide. As part of this campaign, we partnered with Tumblr to do a version of their “Ask Me Anything” where people could submit questions about sexual health. Within hours, we had thousands of questions - some really straight forward (How does the pill work?) and some more complicated (At 18, I know I want to get my tubes tied, and how can I work through this?). This campaign really pushed forward for me the need to create a place, what became my book, to provide accurate, sex-positive information about sexual and reproductive health, and ultimately start more open conversations around these topics.
*Responses have been edited for clarityWed, 13 Mar 2019 10:44:36 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/march-2019-power-playerNYMPod 12: Girl Boss, Over Certified, and a Seat at the Table https://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-12-girl-boss-over-certified-and-seat-table
It's Women's History Month and women all over the world are demanding a seat at the table and revolutionizing male-dominated industries and spaces. We're excited to have one of those women join us on this month's episode of the podcast. De'Jonnae chats it up with Sustain's CEO and the ultimate Girl Boss, Meika Hollender. In addition to being a Forbes 30 Under 30, and one of the few lady-bosses in a male-dominated industry, Meika is committed to breaking barriers and taking her seat at the table.
If you're looking for a way to support women this month, nominate a trailblazer in your life here! Happy listening.
Tue, 12 Mar 2019 17:34:51 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-12-girl-boss-over-certified-and-seat-tableTalk to Your Young Person About What to Expect During Spring Breakhttps://powertodecide.org/news/talk-your-young-person-about-what-expect-during-spring-break
Popular media has made spring break notorious for being a week of drinking, hook-ups, and sleeping in until your stomach wakes you up demanding a burger and fries. But that isn’t the only way to spend break, and more students are choosing to hang out with friends at home, go on a service trip to help others, or pick up extra shifts at work rather than head to the beach. As the high school or college student in your life heads into spring break don’t get so caught up in packing that you forget to sit down with them to talk about expectations.
If you’re wondering what to say, we've got you covered. Keep it casual by opening with “What are your plans during spring break?” or “What would you like to do with your spring break?” and go from there. If that approach doesn’t work for you, you could try admitting your awkwardness by saying, "I know we don’t usually talk about these things, but I was reading an article about spring break and I wanted to talk to you about what it said before your vacation begins.”
Super easy, right? No matter the type of spring break your young person is planning on having, use this blog as your guide. You'll both be glad you did.
1. Have fun.
Parents, champions, and everyone in between, remind the young people in your life that it's okay to have fun! Consider sharing a personal story about your own spring break experiences. Hearing stories about your youth makes you relatable, further encouraging your young person to be more open with you about their adventures.
2. Stay protected.
Safety first. If they’re heading to the beach they need sunscreen, if they’re heading out on a service trip it’s smart to pack an extra power bank for their electronics, and if they’re staying in town it’s important that the kitchen pantry is as full as their Netflix queue. But, no matter what their plans are, make sure that the young person in your life has a birth control that works for them and some condoms to protect against STIs. Better safe than sorry, right?
3. Be respectful.
Talk to your young person about peer pressure, consent, verbal and non-verbal cues, boundaries, and the like. Let them know that you expect them to treat others with respect and that they should expect the same type of treatment too. Tell them how proud you'd be to hear if they stepped in to help someone being disrespected, be it around drinking, sex, drugs, or anything else. You’ve likely talked to them about consent before, but it’s an important message and it bears repeating.
4. Know I’m always here for you.
A simple, "I'm just a phone call away" might sound corny and super cliché, but reminding your young person that you will always be available means the world to them. Offer yourself as a resource and an ally by making sure they know that you’re a judgement-free place to get advice and help.
Even if you experience a few eye rolls or long pauses, don’t assume you’ve failed to reach your young person—they’re listening and want to know more from you. Conversations like these are necessary and talking about difficult and uncomfortable topics is just a part of life. Learning how to effectively communicate in uncomfortable situations will help prepare your young person for even more complicated conversations later–like negotiating salaries, for example. The more you talk about these things, the easier it gets.Thu, 07 Mar 2019 09:08:21 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/talk-your-young-person-about-what-expect-during-spring-breakOur Third Round of Innovation Next Recipientshttps://powertodecide.org/news/our-third-round-innovation-next-recipients
While working with IDEO in 2008, Power to Decide used the process of human-centered design to successfully reimagine sexual education for adults, creating Bedsider.org. With funding from the Office of Adolescent Health, we want to find and support individuals interested in giving teen pregnancy prevention a complete makeover. Using the Design Thinking framework, Innovation Next recruits and works with teams to define challenges, develop technology-based solutions, and refine their concepts so that they can successfully move from concept to scale.
Recently, we announced our third cohort of award recipients. Each team is composed of three individuals and aims to answer one “how might we…” question. The teams and their questions are:
Sexpert: How might we increase dual method use and subsequently decrease teen pregnancy among 15-18-year-old Black and Latinx adolescents?
Luna’s Last Week: How might we use digital media to thoughtfully engage adolescents in experiences of teenage pregnancy and resources for the prevention of teen and unplanned pregnancy?
NObility: How might we employ digital learning tools to expand and enrich access to sexual and reproductive health education for adolescents and young adults with diverse learning needs?
Power Up: How might we leverage existing entertainment preferences to engage young men in sexual health education?
Healthy You, Healthy Future: How might we create culturally and linguistically relevant opportunities and materials for young refugee women aged 18-24 in the U.S. to access and engage with sexual and reproductive health information in a way that equips, empowers, and protects their sexual and reproductive health experiences?
“Our team is excited for the opportunity from Innovation Next to work with young adult refugee women on a human based design solution that will empower those young women to plan for healthy futures,” said Grace Paulsen of Healthy You, Healthy Future Team.
“We are elated at the opportunity to transform potential into power and nurture the limitless ability of New Orleans youth for the next innovation generation. We invest in what we value. Thank you to Innovation Next for recognizing the abilities in students with disabilities,” said Sheryl-Amber Edmondson from Team NObility.
Since peaking in 1991, the teen birth rate has declined 67 percent, and the related savings to taxpayers have been significant. However, progress isn’t victory, and unplanned pregnancy rates for Latina and African American teens are still more than twice as high as compared to their white counterparts. In addition, more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts, where they do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.
The teams will spend the next four months applying design thinking to each of their respective challenges, and will pitch their final ideas to a panel of judges in June 2019.Mon, 04 Mar 2019 11:00:13 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/our-third-round-innovation-next-recipientsThe Lancet HIV Spotlights “Overlooked US HIV Crisis Among Youth”https://powertodecide.org/news/lancet-hiv-spotlights-overlooked-us-hiv-crisis-among-youth
In an article published on Wednesday, February 27, in the peer-reviewed medical journal The Lancet HIV, New York University professor and Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health (CLAFH) director Vincent Guilamo-Ramos spotlights what he describes as the “underappreciated youth HIV crisis” and substantial rise in new HIV diagnoses among adolescents and young adults.
Guilamo-Ramos writes in the article entitled “Youth at risk of HIV: the overlooked US HIV prevention crisis” that the number of new annual HIV diagnoses in the US declined 4 percent from 2012 to 2016, continuing a favorable trend overall that began in the 1980s.
However, among those age 13 to 29, new HIV diagnoses rose by a substantial 6 percent from 2012 to 2016, according to new data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“The rates of new HIV diagnoses are highest among racial and ethnic minority youth and young men who have sex with men (MSM),” writes Guilamo-Ramos. “Alarmingly, new diagnoses among Latino young MSM increased 17% between 2012 and 2016, and new diagnoses among Black young MSM increased 9%.”
Of great concern is data released by the CDC highlighting micro-epidemics, where HIV transmission occurred at rates as high as 33 times the national average. Micro-epidemics are “high-risk clusters” largely consisting of youth, racial and ethnic minorities, and adolescent and young adult males who have sex with men.
Among many inequality factors driving the youth HIV epidemic is unequal access to HIV preventive and treatment health-care services for key populations, including youth from sexual, gender, racial, and ethnic minority groups, according to the researcher. In the article, Guilamo-Ramos highlights three important areas in practice and policy for responses to the youth HIV crisis in the US.
The findings of this paper relate to the results of a survey we conducted in partnership with Cosmopolitan, in which 60 percent of respondents admitted to rarely or never using a condom. In addition to protecting against pregnancy, condoms are the only form of contraception to protect against sexually transmitted infections such as HIV. It’s important that adolescents and young adults learn how to appropriately protect themselves from unplanned pregnancy and STIs while engaging in sexual activity.
Dr. Guilamo-Ramos is a professor at NYU, director of the Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health (CLAFH), and nurse practitioner at the Adolescent AIDS Program at Children’s Hospital of Montefiore Medical Center. He is a member of Power to Decide’s Board of Directors and Health Equity Advisory Group.Fri, 01 Mar 2019 10:07:37 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/lancet-hiv-spotlights-overlooked-us-hiv-crisis-among-youthFebruary 2019: Power Updates Editionhttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2019-power-updates-edition
There are plenty of articles, publications, and stories published every month. In an effort to help you distinguish fact from fiction, save time in your already busy day, and share news you may not have otherwise seen, here are ten stories from the last month we thought you might find interesting:
Youth at risk of HIV: the overlooked US HIV prevention crisis
The estimated number of annual HIV infections has declined more than 60% since the 1980s, but disparities in preventing and treatment still exist. Between 2012-2016, adolescent and young adult HIV diagnoses rose 6%.
The Misclassification of Ambivalence in Pregnancy Intentions: A Mixed‐Methods Analysis
Frequently, measures of pregnancy intent fail to describe the intricacies of pregnancy intentions and ineffectively account for the experiences of young people. This analysis looks at the nuances of pregnancy ambivalence and how current measures attempt to capture this complex concept.
Utilization of long-acting reversible contraceptives in the United States after vs before the 2016 US presidential election
The use of long-acting reversible birth control methods such as IUDs and implants increased significantly among insured women in the 30 days following the 2016 presidential election.
Educational Attainment of Mothers Aged 25 and Over: United States, 2017
The average number of births are declining among women with advanced education (beyond high school). This finding also aligns with another trend, women are waiting until they are older to have their first child (reported in a previous CDC report).
Funding for abstinence-only education and adolescent pregnancy prevention: Does state ideology affect outcomes?
Published in the American Journal of Public Health, findings suggest that the money spent on abstinence-only education has not had an effect on the teen birth rate. It does note that conservative states, which have higher rates of teen pregnancy, are the most responsive to changes in funding streams.
Reproductive control by others: means, perpetrators and effects
This study found that around one quarter of women seeking sexual and reproductive health services report they are not in control of their own reproductive choices. Lack of “reproductive control”, as defined in this article, takes many forms including, not having the ability to choose whether to use birth control, not having a say in whether to start or continue with a pregnancy, and “contraceptive sabotage” such as removing a condom without sex during sex.
Individuals’ perception of their own fertility influences contraceptive use
Women who think they will have difficulties becoming pregnant may feel that they don’t need to use birth control to prevent unintended pregnancy, according this author from Stony Brook University.
Technology-based reproductive health programs reach young women, but user experience matters
Pulse is an app designed for older teens that offers comprehensive, medically-accurate sexual and reproductive health information. Child Trends, a leading nonprofit research organization focused on improving the children’s lives and prospect, evaluated the app and found, “high-quality design, reliable information, and interactive components can enrich the user experience.”
HPV: Not Too Late
Want to spread the word that it’s not too late for young adults to get the HPV vaccine? Healthy Teen Network has prepared a social media kit and a short video, HPV: Not Too Late, which aims to help young adults learn more about HPV and the vaccine and encourages them to take control of their healthcare decisions.
Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy’s 8th Annual Symposium
Do you want to learn the latest on healthy adolescent development and teen pregnancy prevention efforts across Texas? If so, join the Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy’s 8th Annual Symposium from April 15-16, 2019, in Austin, Texas. Experts from throughout Texas will be on hand to give practical advice, guidance and solutions; networking opportunities will ensure that you connect with others doing similar work; and you will become part of a network of professionals making an impact on this issue.
Thu, 28 Feb 2019 11:17:30 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2019-power-updates-editionOne Key Question®: Putting Women Firsthttps://powertodecide.org/news/one-key-questionr-putting-women-first
For most women, deciding if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child is a highly personal and complex decision. For many, the decision is not a binary yes or no answer. Instead, the answer often falls on a spectrum ranging from absolutely not, to not sure, maybe one day, or to yes. While some women ache to become mothers, others wait for the perfect time as they juggle competing priorities, such as their career and other factors, including relationship status, professional aspirations, and financial security. Health providers should approach women’s reproductive health with the understanding that the desire to become pregnant does not always have a clean, neat, check-the-box, yes or no answer.
Enter One Key Question®.
Power to Decide’s One Key Question® has an audacious goal: nothing short of transforming women’s health care. One Key Question® is a tool for health and social service providers that helps start a conversation about if and when women want to get pregnant and have a child. The notion behind One Key Question® is simple: it provides a framework for health providers, social service providers, and champions who support women, age 18-50, to routinely ask, “Would you like to become pregnant in the next year?” By dividing patients’ answers into four categories (yes, no, ok either way, and unsure) rather than only two (yes or no), providers can better focus on what women want to do regarding pregnancy. One Key Question® is non-judgmental and equally supports women who want to become pregnant, those who do not, and those who are ambivalent.
As outlined in a recent New York Times article, pregnancy planning is not a practice that resonates with all ages, cultures, and backgrounds. Moreover, an appreciable proportion of women are ambivalent about pregnancy (our own research suggests it could be as high as 40 percent). One Key Question® meets women where they are by focusing on understanding their goals and providing follow-up care based on the response. That care can take many forms, such as a new prescription for birth control, preconception health, prenatal care, or referral to other services.
One Key Question® is used by thousands of healthcare and social service providers in approximately 30 states. To that end, Power to Decide is the exclusive national trainer for One Key Question® and offers a full complement of capacity building and licensing options for One Key Question®, including:
One day, in-person certification training and consultation package for clinics, community-based organizations, public health departments, and other organizations.
Train the trainer certification training and consultation package.
Systems integration and licensing packages.
At Power to Decide, we believe that all women regardless of who they are or where they live should have the opportunity to pursue the future they want and decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. We recognize that 90 percent of young people say they do not intend to get pregnant at this point in their lives. With One Key Question® health providers will be better equipped to understand their patient’s desires and to provide the care and referrals that are necessary.
Fri, 22 Feb 2019 09:31:33 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/one-key-questionr-putting-women-firstCraft with Bedsider’s #MakeSomeLove Campaign — A Good Conversation Starter https://powertodecide.org/news/craft-bedsiders-makesomelove-campaign-good-conversation-starter
Everyone has questions about sex, love, and relationships. Parents, mentors, and champions are in a unique positon to talk to their young people about these subjects. According to young people themselves, parents and champions influence them the most when it comes to decisions about sex, love and relationships. Just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean that you’re automatically prepared to talk about sex, love, or relationships though. It’s awkward to talk about these subjects, and we get it. These conversation, while important, are often dreaded by everyone involved. But even if you’re finding it hard to make eye contact, it’s still important to make an effort to have an honest and open conversation.
To help these conversations go more smoothly we’ve created materials for champions, mentors, and parents. One of these, a Champion Guide, gives specific tips to guide your conversation. Sometimes having talking points isn’t enough to remove the awkwardness that makes these talks so hard. Many people find it easier to talk about difficult subjects when their hands are busy. And this year Bedsider has a project to do just that.
Bedsider, a program of Power to Decide, is a proven effective digital intervention that supports young women age 18 to 29 in learning about access and effect use of birth control.
For the fourth year in a row, Bedsider has spent a very busy February encouraging people to #MakeSomeLove. Using fun or flirty crafts, this campaign encourages everyone, regardless of their relationship status, to love their bodies, have fun, and use birth control. In the past crafts have included baking romantic cookies, building your dream partner, and rolling up a DIY flower bouquet. This year, Bedsider took inspiration straight from New York Fashion Week and created a tutorial for Glittery Gold Condom Earrings.
These earrings will take your crafting game to a whole new level! More importantly though, they are a great activity that you and the young person in your life can do to keep your hands busy (and your eyes averted) as you talk about sex, love, birth control, and relationships.
Watch all of Bedsider’s #MakeSomeLove videos on YouTube and read the tutorial for our glittery gold condom earrings at Bedsider.org/makesomelove.Wed, 13 Feb 2019 14:11:23 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/craft-bedsiders-makesomelove-campaign-good-conversation-starterFebruary 2019 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2019-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Dr. Swannie Jett, DrPH, MSc
Health Commissioner, Brookline Public Health and Human Services
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
Since 2000, I’ve worked within local health departments to provide high-quality contraceptive services. If services are not available, I connect them to local resources such as Planned Parenthood. In Communities such as Seminole County, FL, Louisville and Shepherdsville, KY, I ensured parents had the proper resources available regardless of income. In Shepherdsville, I collaborated with a local non-profit to provide contraceptive services to high school boys including education about sexual health. In Seminole County, I focused on building a relationship with True Health (a Federally Qualified Health Center) and the Healthy Start Coalition to assist families with resources for decisions on health.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
My career began at Louisville Metro Public Health as an Environmental Health manager. Within the first two years, I was promoted to Site Director for the Healthy Start Program at Shawnee High School. The Healthy Start Program worked to reduce infant mortality rates among African-Americans in a West Louisville neighborhood. In 2003, I oversaw clinical operations and created the Office of Men’s Health where through clinical operations we provided family planning services and primary care to youth and adults. Establishment of the Office of Men’s Health at the local level was important to me at the time, because none existed at any level of government. At this pivotal point in my career I realized how much the health department positively impacts people’s lives. It became my mission to shift the ideology that social economics determine whether someone has excellent health.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
My advice would be to become a student of public health through constantly reading, studying research, and developing ideas. Never be afraid to be an innovator and be progressive despite the barriers that may exist. Be bold! Society has greatly improved over time due to risk takers and innovators willing to challenge the status quo.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
We live in a democratic society where we should respect people and diversity, while embracing our differences to continue to improve life on earth. Providing individuals with information and resources helps them to make decisions instead of impeding them. Everyone should have access to healthcare no matter where they live or how much money they make. We should also be cognizant of healthcare delivery and health inequities, because we as nation pay in many ways for failing to keep citizens healthy.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
My highlight in working with Power to Decide is the engagement with leading experts in the field and creating strategies for the Reproductive Well-Being Toolkit. The Health Equity strategy is an important approach to reducing implicit and explicit bias toward reproductive health and allows individuals the ability to determine when to have a child. It’s important that we continue to reduce health inequities that impact people’s lives.
*Responses have been edited for clarityTue, 12 Feb 2019 09:14:32 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2019-power-playerBlack History Month: 6 African-American Women Trailblazers That Have Changed the Worldhttps://powertodecide.org/news/black-history-month-6-african-american-women-trailblazers-have-changed-world
Black History Month (also known as African-American History Month) is a celebration African-American men and women who have made significant contributions to our country. Though it is important to acknowledge prominent women figures such as Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks, there are countless other African-American women who have made history in many different ways and in a variety of fields. Here are six African-American women heroes—both past and present—that changed the world of reproductive health for the better.
1. Mary Kenner—Inventor
Mary Kenner was an African-American inventor who revamped the world of feminine care with the invention of the sanitary belt (aka the maxi pad). Though her invention attracted multiple feminine hygiene companies, it was rejected by most when they realized Mary was African-American. Unfortunately, the maxi pad wasn’t patented until 30 years after its creation. Nevertheless, Mary went on to patent other household items including the bathroom tissue holder, a back washer that mounted on the wall of the shower, and the carrier attachment on walkers for disabled people.
2. Shirley Chisholm—US Congresswoman
The first African-American woman elected to Congress was Shirley Chisholm (1968). She later gained the title of the first woman and African American to campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1972. Her slogan was “Fighting Shirley Chisholm—Unbought and Unbossed." Shirley always sought after extracurricular activities that allowed her to advocate for women and minorities. In her early years in New York, she joined her local chapter of the League of Women Voters, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Urban League, and the Democratic Party club in Brooklyn. Shirley eventually retired from the House of Representatives in 1982 after serving seven years.
3. Byllye Yvonne Avery—Activist
Byllye Avery has been a health care activist dedicated to bettering the welfare of African-American women for over 40 years. After her husband’s sudden death at age 33, Byllye made a commitment to improve the health of African-American communities with a focus on women’s health issues. In 1983, she founded the National Black Women's Health Project (now known as the Black Women's Health Imperative), the first national organization to specialize in black women's reproductive health issues. She has won multiple awards for her health care contributions such as the MacArthur Foundation's Fellowship for Social Contribution in 1989 and the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Award for a Pioneer in Women’s Rights in 2008.
4. Luvvie Ajayi—Author, speaker, and digital strategist
Luvvie Ajayi is an award-winning author, speaker, and digital strategist who uses her voice and humor to amplify issues surrounding gender, racial, and social justice. Aside from challenging her audience of millions to get activated in their communities (through her blog Awesomely Luvvie and her podcast Rants and Randomness) and consulting with brands as a successful digital strategist, she serves as the executive director of The Red Pump Project, a non-profit she co-founded that empowers and educates women and girls of color about HIV/AIDS to help eliminate the stigma associated with the epidemic.
5. Serena Williams—Tennis professional
Serena Williams may be unstoppable on the tennis court, but even star athletes can find themselves in a health crisis. We learned after the birth of her daughter, Olympia, a year ago, she faced complications including a pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lung) followed by bedrest for six weeks. Serena credits her survival to the professionalism of her medical team, “They knew exactly how to handle this complicated turn of events. If it weren't for their professional care, I wouldn't be here today,” she stated in a self-authored CNN commentary. Serena’s status as one of the world's highest-paid athletes—having access to the best doctors and healthcare—encouraged her to become an ambassador in support of women of lesser means who face racial disparities in healthcare.
6. Bianca Laureano—Sexologist
Bianca Laureano is a LatiNegra educator and sexologist working exclusively with communities of color, immigrants, and youth for over 20 years. Her passion for putting communities of color at the forefront of discussions surrounding sexual health and well-being inspired her to found the Women of Color Sexual Health Network (WOCSHN). Now a resident of Oakland, CA, Bianca continues to write curricula that centered around communities of color including Sexual Attitudes Reassessment (SAR), embracing failure, and staying connected to erotic power while grieving/mourning.Tue, 05 Feb 2019 09:33:56 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/black-history-month-6-african-american-women-trailblazers-have-changed-worldCelebrate Valentine’s Day at Every Agehttps://powertodecide.org/news/celebrate-valentines-day-every-age
As Valentine’s Day approaches it provides an excellent opportunity for parents, champions, and mentors to talk to the young people in their lives about love, sex, and relationships. Champions play a critical role in a young person’s life to provide accurate information on sex, love, relationships, and contraception.
Wondering when you should begin? Right now! Here are a few examples of how Valentine’s Day offers opportunities to talk to young people at every age:
Toddlers
As they grow into their independence, toddlers will often mimic what they see around them and internalize the messages they learn. Consider including them in your and your significant other’s V-Day plans. If you’re going to have a romantic dinner out, let your toddler help you pick out your outfit. If you’re doing something special at home, let them help by washing produce or mixing the pancake batter.
Inclusion is key, teaching your child to see love in family relationships is very important, but so is exposing them to other kinds of partnerships. There are loads of age appropriate books that show a variety of healthy and diverse relationships. Here are a few of our favorites that you can read to the toddler in your life:
A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo
Welcome Home Little Baby
"More More More," Said the Baby
And Tango Makes Three
Toddlers
Once your child enters school they’ll meet new kids and have new experiences without your supervision. It’s an exciting time, and it also may be when your child experiences their first crush. They may develop a sudden interest for a particular classmate, a new fascination with moments where movie characters’ kiss, or dating and marriage plots may pop up in pretend play. Suppress your urge to learn all the details and follow your child’s lead; ask general questions (e.g., “Why are they so special to you?” or “What do you like doing with them?”) so they can direct the conversation.
Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate crushes and all things love, but it can also be a day where young feelings are hurt. This is an excellent opportunity to practice empathy with your child and talk about how they might feel if they’re left out of the giving of cards or if they were teased by a classmate. Teaching your young person that everyone deserves love is an important lesson, and when the rest of the world is celebrating that magic you can take advantage to bring this lesson home.
Middle School
There’s a reason so many people look back on middle school and shudder. It’s a time full of change, physical and emotional, and most preteens feel awkward about some part of their life. Personal curiosity and peer pressure contribute to making middle school a time when your child may experience their first “real” relationship. You may still think of them as kids, but the feelings and relationships they’re having feel significant to them.
Your child may still celebrate Valentine’s Day in school, but they’re now more likely to do so out of school too. This is a time when your child and their friends start to partner off and explore romantic relationships. This provides an opportunity to have conversations about new romantic feelings, what to expect and setting boundaries. For example, it is alright to communicate that while it is ok to spend time with a significant other, it’s also important not to forgo group activities and risk alienating friends who may not have significant others. Also it’s alright to set boundaries and bring up the notion of having a chaperone (e.g., if they’d like to see a movie, go with them and watch another film). If they and their friends would like to have a group date, consider not chaperoning and instead having them check in via text so you’re aware of where they are and who they’re with.
High School
By the time your young person reaches high school, hopefully they’ll have learned how to have healthy relationships. But high school young people still have questions. Remember to do your best to remain a trusted resource for them to go to for advice. Even if you’re not ready to let go, it’s important to recognize that many high school age young people are not only having relationships, but engaging in sexual activity.
When it comes to Valentine’s Day try setting boundaries alongside your high schooler. Come up with compromises for their curfew and acceptable date ideas together. Not only will this give you the opportunity to continue having conversations with them about sex and relationships, but it’ll also give them a chance to prove to you their maturity.
Each stage of childhood and young adulthood provides parents, champions, and mentors with diverse opportunities to teach young people about sex, love, and relationships. The task may seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry! Making each lesson age-appropriate will help your child to understand themselves and those around them better. Your young person will be grateful you took the time to teach them.Mon, 04 Feb 2019 09:43:41 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/celebrate-valentines-day-every-ageSomething to Talk About: Sex Education on Netflixhttps://powertodecide.org/news/something-talk-about-sex-education-netflix
If you’ve ever wondered whether sexual content on TV glamorizes—or even encourages —young people to have sex, the following might surprise you. As sexual content in pop culture became more explicit and more prevalent over the last twenty-some years, teen pregnancy and birth rates dropped by more than half. In fact, popular media is one key factor credited with helping to drive this public health miracle. Not by showing less sex; but by normalizing open conversations about sex, portraying birth control as a regular part of sex, and spotlighting how characters feel about their decisions to have sex (or not).
Netflix’s original series Sex Education holds nothing back when it comes to sex, in all its awkward glory. But at its core, the show is a heartfelt testament to honesty, respect, and trust as the keys to satisfying relationships at any age. It’s an ode to the power of open conversations—and a reminder that it’s easier to talk about being honest than it is to actually be honest. Otis, the wise-beyond-his-years virgin whose mom (Jean) is a sex therapist, starts an underground sex therapy clinic at school with classmate/crush/mysterious Maeve. Otis, Maeve, best friend Eric, and the many vibrant characters in Sex Education are figuring out who they are, what they want, and who they want to be. While Jean is a talented therapist, her professional training doesn’t prepare her to learn how to let Otis grow up.
Despite his lack of sexual experience, Otis is a skilled listener who helps his fellow students get beyond the mechanics of sex and into its deeper meaning in their lives and relationships. At 16, Otis feels self-conscious about being a virgin–but as the series unfolds, he and his fellow students come to realize that we all have the power to decide what we’re ready for and when; and that true comfort lies in going at your own pace. One example of many: when a “client” is frustrated by her many failed attempts to have sex for the first time, Otis points out that most people their age haven’t had sex yet either, and perhaps her heart is trying to tell her something.
The show delivers on its promise of honesty and informs without being heavy-handed. The school sex ed class alone ends up being as hilarious as it is informative (thanks to Otis) and we see that real sex education is happening all around us, all the time. Sex Educationrips band-aids off everything from virginity to abortion to mother/son boundary issues to the need for better LGBTQ sex ed—with heart, pain, compassion, and humor. This is how actual people experience all things sex.
Another reason Sex Education is a great conversation-starter: we’ve all been there. Maybe not in these exact situations, but the doubts, heartbreak, thrills, and panic these characters experience are deeply relatable at all ages. Fact: 7 in 10 young people 12-24 say they have learned something useful about sex, love, or relationships from TV shows/popular media; 2 out of 3 say that when there are teen/unplanned pregnancy stories in popular media that they can relate to, it makes them think more about their own risk; and more than half have had a helpful conversation with their parents about sex because of something they saw in popular media. TV shows rank 3rd, after friends and parents, as the source where teen girls say they’ve learned the most about romantic relationships.
Each episode of Sex Education is packed with beyond-the-basics sex questions that everyone—adults and young people alike—thinks about, but few people have the guts to ask. If you have a young person in your life, this show will make you more motivated than ever to be clear that you’re trustworthy (but not intrusive!); to start talking with them now; and to point them to good information about sex, relationships, and birth control. For those who worry that these conversations will encourage sex, research shows that the opposite is true: providing accurate, comprehensive sex education doesn’t hasten sex, it helps young people have safer sex when they’re ready. If there’s one takeaway from the show’s mix of sweetness and spice, it’s this: Talking is power.
Watch the full season of Sex Education on Netflix here. Tell us what you think!
—Marisa Nightingale, Senior Media AdvisorFri, 18 Jan 2019 20:52:16 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/something-talk-about-sex-education-netflixThe Power of Birth Controlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/power-birth-control
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics (CDC) recently released two reports, one on birth statistics and a second on contraceptive use.
When women have the power to decide for themselves if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child, they have the opportunity to be mentally and physically healthy, to complete their education, and to pursue the future they want, on their own terms. And as the number of people in the US with access to the full spectrum of contraceptive services increases, we’re seeing a change in the birth rates across the country.
The CDC found that the overall birth rate fell 2% between 2016 and 2017. Women in their 20s and 30s saw a decrease in pregnancy and births, but women in their early 40s saw an increase. Three encouraging pieces of data came from the report. First, the percentage of woman who smoked during their pregnancy fell to under 7%. Second, nearly 80% of women began prenatal care in their first trimester. And finally, for teens between the ages of 15 and 19, the birth decreased by 7% between 2017 and 2017. Most notably, the US teen birth rate has declined 70% since peaking in 1991.
Since virtually all teenage pregnancies are unplanned, this is especially good news. The effects of unplanned pregnancy on teenagers and their support networks can be dire. One-third of teen girls who have dropped out of high school cite early pregnancy or parenthood as a key reason, with only 40% of teen moms earning their high school diploma. Rates of teen pregnancy unequally effect young people living in poverty or in foster care, or who face persistent racism and discrimination.
The other CDC report focused on contraceptive use among women aged 15-49 in America. Encouragingly, the number of women using a method of contraception to avoid an unplanned pregnancy has increased. Nearly 65% of women now use a method of contraception, a remarkable increase from 61.1% during the previous survey period between 2011-2015.
Our work aims to ensure that all young people, but especially those who are economically disadvantaged or marginalized, have the power to decide if and when they become pregnant and have a child. These data show considerable progress, and also where additional work is still needed.
More than 19 million US women in need do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. They live in what we call contraceptive deserts. For young people who intend not to get pregnant, living in a contraceptive desert creates a significant roadblock on the path of opportunity. It’s time to bring these deserts back to life and restore the power to decide for the people living there.Fri, 11 Jan 2019 09:43:12 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/power-birth-controlNew Year, New Congress: Resolve to Get Involvedhttps://powertodecide.org/news/new-year-new-congress-resolve-get-involved
The latest midterm election left a lot of Americans feeling a lot of emotions; some positive, some negative. But, it also created the most diverse Congress in history. This month, 23 people of color and 42 women, from both sides of the aisle, took their oath of office. Upon joining their colleagues, the grand total of women serving hit 127*—a record high.
Other exciting firsts include the election of the first Somali-American woman and the first Palestinian-American woman. Both of these women are also the first Muslim women to serve in Congress. Not one, but two women became the first Native American women to win seats. And Massachusetts elected its first African-American woman. Excitingly, three more female veterans won their elections, bringing the total number of woman veterans in Congress to seven (and includes Republicans and Democrats)—the largest number in history.
This new Congress also has women from both major parties leading the Appropriations Committee, which approves funding for the federal government. It’s one of the most powerful committees in Congress, so it’s a big deal to have two women at the helm.
If you don’t know who your reps are now is the perfect time to find out. To find your Representative in the House, go to www.House.gov, and in the upper right hand corner enter your zip code in the box under “Find your representative.” To find your Senators, go to www.Senate.gov and in the upper left hand corner, click on your state from the drop down menu that says “Find Your Senators.” Each of these tools will bring you directly to the member’s web page, where you will find links for their social media profiles. This is also the best way to make sure that you are following the accurate verified account.
And that’s even more important since social media has become a larger part of how members of Congress interact with their constituents (that’s you!). One newly elected member actually had an “ask me anything” session on Instagram Live while cooking. Social media has become a game changer, allowing people to directly interact with their representatives in real time. Members are most likely to be on Facebook and Twitter, but some of the more social media savvy are also on Instagram and Snapchat.
Social media has become a great way to reach out to your representatives, but it’s not a substitute for calling their offices and showing up at town halls. If you’re really afraid of talking on the phone, you can send an email, but don’t forget to personalize any templates you find with how an issue or law personally affects you. Member’s offices’ keep track of the phone calls and emails that they receive so that they can produce a tally of the number of constituents in favor/opposed to a bill, vote, etc. Members absolutely pay attention to whether or not their constituents are supportive of an issue. For example, in the summer of 2017 these calls—which were overwhelmingly against repeal—are the reason the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is still the law.
No matter how you contact your member of Congress, it’s smart to have talking points for the policy you support. Just as powerful, and sometimes more important, are your stories though. They help to put a face to the more impersonal numbers or talking points. In fact, your stories matter so much that we at Power to Decide want to hear them as well. We’re always collecting stories of how birth control has affected your life. Right now we want to know whether you or someone you know ever struggled to afford birth control, or struggled to get access to the method they need? If so, tell us about it!
Whether the person you voted for won or not, or even if you didn’t vote (But you should vote next election! Register here!), your member of Congress still represents you. In addition to telling them what you think about the issues, that means that they can provide you with constituent services. They can help you or your family (if they too are constituents) when you have trouble accessing a federal benefit such as Medicare. Your member and their staff can intervene to bring about a resolution or at least get answers to questions for you. Members have state and district offices where these requests are handled. You can find the contact information on the member’s web page and then give the local office a call. Alternately, members of Congress should have a services or constituent services tab on their website where you can submit requests, if you prefer to do it that way.
Real example of a constituent issue that was resolved after contacting their member of Congress' office.
You’re ready to get involved, so what’s next? If you don’t know where to start look to your local newspaper or TV station. Issues that are happening locally are the most likely to have an impact on your life. Your local news may also cover how a federal policy will impact the local community or state. Social media is also a good resource for learning about news at every level, but make sure to carefully look at who you’re getting news from to make sure they’re reputable source. If you want to know what’s going on in the policy world with regard to contraception, sign-up for Power Pulse, Power to Decide’s monthly newsletter and check out our get involved section of Power to Decide website.
Listen and learn more on the latest episode of Not Your Mama’s Podcast!
*When the podcast was recorded this number was 121. It has since gone up as final votes have been counted. Wed, 09 Jan 2019 09:03:14 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/new-year-new-congress-resolve-get-involvedNYMPod 10: New Year New Congresshttps://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-10-new-year-new-congress
New Year, new congress, maybe a new you, but definitely plenty of opportunities to get activated! On this episode of the podcast, De'Jonnae is joined by Power to Decide's Senior Public Policy Manager, Tara Mancini. Whether you're more like De'Jonnae, and prefer to avoid the news and politics altogether or you're more like Tara and look forward to digging in head first, this episode is all about helping you to find your politco-flow and to make 2019 a year of activism. Happy Listening!
Editor’s Note: When we recorded this episode, the number of women entering the 116th Congress was 121. However, the updated number of women in the 116th Congress is 127.
Tue, 08 Jan 2019 11:28:17 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-10-new-year-new-congress4 Dos and Don’ts to Making Your New Year’s Resolution Counthttps://powertodecide.org/news/4-dos-and-donts-making-your-new-years-resolution-count
Does the idea of selecting a New Year’s resolution make you want to pull your hair out? Though some may find it frightening to think about new goals to accomplish in the upcoming year, there are ways to help you create the perfect New Year’s resolution for you. Below are four dos and don’ts to help you strategically plan out your goals for 2019.
Don’t: Change your entire lifestyle at once. | Do: Change one behavior at a time.
The key to creating a successful New Year’s resolution is to start small. Find one or two reachable goals that you think you can keep. For example, if you desire more exercise, limit your work out to just a couple days a week rather than going hard for a full seven. Making small changes every couple of months is a much more realistic way of reaching all of your goals by the end of the year.
Don’t: Procrastinate. | Do: Plan ahead.
Waiting until New Year's Eve to choose your resolution is definitely not ideal. Use the days or week prior to start thinking about the goals you want to achieve and be sure you have the resources available to do so. If you’re serious about exercise, make sure you have a trainer, comfortable clothes, and your favorite work out tunes to get you going. Planning ahead will better prepare you for the change that is to come.
Don’t: Keep your resolutions a secret. | Do: Shout them from the rooftops!
Sharing your New Year's resolution with family and friends will make it more likely for you to receive support and avoid failure as you continue with your goals. Your chances of success are greater when you have someone to share your struggles and accomplishments with. Telling a friend or close family member about your goals—and checking in with them regularly—helps you stay focused and eases your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Don’t: Get discouraged if you slip up. | Do: Believe in yourself.
Everyone’s had that craving for a slice of pizza or a chocolate chip cookie in the middle of a diet, so don’t feel discouraged if you find yourself giving in around the one-month mark. The important thing to remember is that you know you’re capable of completing your goals, so believe in yourself and celebrate the small victories along the way to keep you feeling good.
New Year’s resolutions are lifestyle changes that will continue for years to come. One you most definitely don’t want to forget is to make your sexual health a priority this year. Have you considered upgrading your birth control? Have you made an appointment to get tested for STIs? Of all your resolutions for this coming year, make sure your take care of your hind parts and reproductive organs.Thu, 27 Dec 2018 14:30:49 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/4-dos-and-donts-making-your-new-years-resolution-countHelp! My Friends and My Ex Are Still Friends…https://powertodecide.org/news/help-my-friends-and-my-ex-are-still-friends
When you date someone for a while, your worlds start to combine. And while that’s awesome when you’re together, it makes for a tough and confusing break up. Should your friends dump your ex too? Or are they entitled to keep the friendship going? Here’s how to navigate various situations:
If they knew each other first. If you met your ex through a friend, then you had to be prepared for this possibility. This is the reason why some people don’t like hooking their friends up with each other. But as tough as it may be to think about your friend and your ex still hanging out, this can actually be a good thing for you. Since you share a friend (or even group of friends) your ex is going to be more motivated to keep things cordial post-break up and speak positively about you. Also, this can make it easier to become friends again if that’s something you want to do. Often the worst part of a break up can be losing a person completely from your life (on top of losing a romantic partner). If you’re connected to your ex through a friend, it can help you and your ex stay in each other’s lives in a new and positive way.
If they became close through me. If your friends and your ex got to know each other through you, then their “right” to remain friends isn’t so black and white. In this case, the best way to handle it is to have an open conversation with your friend. I wouldn’t straight up tell them they can’t be friends with your ex, because that could make them resent you. Instead, honestly tell your friend what aspects of their friendship makes you uncomfortable. Work out together what your policy is going to be about hanging out with one or both of you. Should they not invite your ex to group hang outs when you’re involved? Does this mean they won’t invite you to a group hang out when your ex is involved? Would it be better to just warn you both when you’re going to be in the same place and then let you decide for yourselves? The more open you are with your friend about your feelings, the less likely this sitch will cause ripples in your friendship.
If their friendship revolves around you. As messed up as it seems, sometimes your friends will get close to your ex as you’re going through the break up! Maybe your ex reached out to your friend for advice or help about you, or even as a way to try to stay connected with you and know what’s going on in your life. If you’re in this situation, give your friend clear guidelines about what info you’re okay with them sharing and what you’re not. It’s also completely fine for you to say that you don’t want them talking about you when they do talk—it’s fine if they want to be friendly, but you need to be left out of it. Your ex can go to other friends for advice and help on getting through the break up. Chances are, as the break up gets further away, and your ex is less attached to you, he or she will also be less attached to seeking out your friends.
If it was a NASTY break up. If your ex did something really horrible to you as you were breaking up or during the relationship, it’s understandable that you wouldn’t want them to be hanging out with your friends. All break ups can get messy, and people can say and do hurtful things, but if your ex did something that really crossed the line, it may feel like a betrayal if your friends still hang out with them. Tell your friends this, and tell them how hurtful it feels for them to stay friendly with someone who was so horrible to you. Hopefully they’ll take this to heart and realize with your ex isn’t worth the pain it causes you. And if you’re truly feeling betrayed by a friend, you’ve spoken with them about it openly, and things still aren’t changing…then perhaps that’s a friendship that needs some distance.
Originally published on stayteen.org on December 18, 2015.Tue, 18 Dec 2018 12:55:51 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/help-my-friends-and-my-ex-are-still-friendsA Birth Control Lover's Guide to Giftshttps://powertodecide.org/news/birth-control-lovers-guide-gifts
Everyone has at least one person in their life that’s impossible to buy a gift for. And with the shops at their busiest this time of year, it’s lucky that sometimes the best, most thoughtful gifts for the people in your life can’t be found in stores.
Here's our 2018 holiday gift guide, which allows you check off those last few people on your list while skipping the traffic and the crowds at the mall:
Give the Give of Talking
Let’s be honest: with the rise of social media, young people today are inundated with a lot of conflicting – and often times incorrect – information about sex, love, and relationships. Yet according to research and polling, teens still say that their parents – including you, dad – are their biggest influence when it comes to these topics. As lame or painful as it may seem, this holiday break, give the gift of meaningful conversations with the young people in your life.
(And if they have questions they’re too embarrassed to talk to you about, feel free to point them towards StayTeen, our website for young people aged 13-19. They can learn about sex and relationships in an unbiased and fact-based way and ask their questions anonymously.)
Give the Gift of Time
Spending time with family is one of the best parts of the holidays, and if access to reproductive health information and services is something that you and your loved ones care about, give the gift of time and feel the power of working together to expand access to those without. Our Get Involved section has different ways to activate your network, community, and decision makers to create a more informed and empowered society with your loved ones.
Give the Gift of “Thanks, Birth Control” swag
“Thanks, Birth Control” Day may only officially happen once a year, but we celebrate birth control and everything it helps us accomplish all year. With items like t-shirts (in English AND Spanish), hats, pins, and more, there is definitely something the empowered birth control lover in your life would love to wear proudly.
Give the Gift of Birth Control
Our new Contraceptive Access Fund will help the millions of women across the country overcome the obstacles they face in getting the contraception of their choice. A donation of $30 can get a year’s worth of birth control delivered straight to someone who needs it. Help support the work we do to make contraceptive access a reality for these millions of women. Make a gift in honor of a loved one and give the gift of birth control. Tue, 18 Dec 2018 09:31:15 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/birth-control-lovers-guide-giftsVICKI SANT: GOODBYE TO A TENACIOUS CHAMPION AND A DEAR FRIENDhttps://powertodecide.org/news/vicki-sant-goodbye-tenacious-champion-and-dear-friend
Vicki Sant, a renowned and beloved philanthropist, passed away last Wednesday. A true renaissance woman, all who encountered Vicki admired her, and, more personally, she mentored us. She and her husband Roger committed themselves to a rather audacious goal—to make the world and their hometown a better, healthier, more welcoming, more equitable, and more sustainable place. What a difference they made.
Among her many, many accomplishments, Vicki was a founding board member of The National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy (now Power to Decide). We had the pleasure of serving beside her for many of the 20 plus years she served on Power to Decide’s board.
Back in the early 1990s, President Clinton described teen pregnancy as the nation’s most pressing social challenge and called for a public–private partnership to address the issue. Vicki answered that call. With her tremendous support as a Board member, the nation made truly extraordinary progress on an issue many considered intractable. The numbers speak for themselves; teen pregnancy has fallen by half, teen births have plummeted by 70%, and significant progress has occurred in all 50 states and among all racial/ethnic groups. The progress has been wide and deep.
True to form, Vicki celebrated these achievements, but recognized that progress and victory are not synonymous. She challenged us to evolve, to dig deep and to recalibrate. Thanks to her push, we did just that—expanding our mission to include young adults and redoubling our efforts to reach those young people most at risk of unplanned pregnancy.
As Vicki’s board colleagues, we got to witness firsthand a true force of nature. Calm and thoughtful, to be sure, she was in equal measure resolute and unwavering. Vicki’s approach could fairly be described as an iron fist in a velvet glove. She often produced insights through questions and found ways to illuminate the direction in which good judgment needed to go.
Vicki generously gave her time, her talent, and her resources. Although we most closely associate Vicki as a leader of our organization, it would be myopic not to recognize the force for good she was in Washington, D.C. and further abroad. From pandas at the National Zoo to the National Gallery of Art; from the World Wildlife Fund to the Museum of Natural History; from the National Symphony Orchestra to cleaning up the Anacostia River, Vicki made a myriad of causes better and more successful.
Vicki’s brilliance, wit, tenacity, and dedication are, of course, irreplaceable, but her spirit and impact endures. Vicki’s light will always shine bright in us and in the countless lives she touched. Thank you, Vicki—for the example you set, and for all you did to make this world a better place.
Stephen Weiswasser, Chair, Power to Decide Board of Directors & Amanda Deaver, Vice Chair, Power to Decide Board of DirectorsMon, 17 Dec 2018 11:21:09 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/vicki-sant-goodbye-tenacious-champion-and-dear-friendHow to Buy Condoms: Part 1https://powertodecide.org/news/how-buy-condoms-part-1
Pick up your wallet, take out the cash, hand it to the cashier…ah, if only buying condoms were that easy! But as you may imagine, this purchase can come along with healthy dose of both confusion and embarrassment. To help with that, here’s your play by play:
Buy the right size. Condoms stretch a lot. Literally, I’ve seen a dude stretch one over his head before. This is to say that very few guys NEED magnum-sized condoms. Though the men who need them find them more comfortable, it’s a bad idea for regular sized guys to buy them because any condom that is too big can more easily slip off.
Don’t get Serengeti fever/distracted by all the options. There must be 7,453 types of condoms on the market right now (and about a thousand on the shelves if you go to a big drug store). There are flavored ones, colored ones, textured ones…seriously it can be like shopping for balloon animals. The truth: they aren’t really that all that different. Different people might grow to prefer different brands over time, but you can never go wrong with a plain lubricated condom. (Think bottled water here…there are a zillion brands at the end of the day they taste pretty similar and all quench your thirst).
To spermicide or not to spermicide. Here is another choice to make. Although spermicide adds an extra layer of pregnancy protection, it can also be irritating to the vagina. If you want to use two forms of birth control—which is always a good choice!—a condom and a hormonal method (pills, ring, patch) may be your best bet.
To lube or not to lube. Many condoms these days come lubricated with substances that claim to “make you last longer,” “turn up the heat,” or make sex “explosive.” Again, these are mostly marketing ploys, and some of these tingling lubricants may be distracting or even uncomfortable. Perhaps something you want to try at some point, but to play it safe, steer away from these. If you do want to use a lubricant, you can always stick with any simple water-based lubricant on the isle (i.e. no oils, body lotions, etc. since oil-based lubricants make condoms more likely to break).
Keep your cool. So you have the condoms in hand, you’re walking up to the register, and you’re starting to get nervous. What is the cashier thinking? Are they judging me? Are they going to announce to people what I’m buying? The answer to all of these worries is very likely NO. Assuming you don’t know the cashier, they likely couldn’t care less what you’re buying. Maybe the first few times someone bought condoms they found it awkward or funny, but at this point, they’re probably immune to it and are just thinking about getting off work. And seriously—they’ve seen enough people’s shopping that your condom purchase is likely not that big of a deal to them, so don’t sweat it.
After all that, it’s important to remember what buying condoms means. Worst case scenario, let’s say the cashier does judge you—or has a judgy face. Remember what it means about you that you’re buying condoms: it means that you’re being safe and that you’re being prepared. It doesn’t even necessarily mean that you’re having sex! (Or that you have to have sex.) But whether you need to use that condom tomorrow or two years from tomorrow, it’s always a smart thing to have around.
Want to know more? Check out How to Buy Condoms: Part 2 here!
Originally published on stayteen.org on July 10, 2013.Thu, 13 Dec 2018 12:30:07 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-buy-condoms-part-1December 2018 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/december-2018-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Elise Schuster
Co-Founder, okayso
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
Young people often turn to Google when they have questions about sexual health, but they’re also savvy enough to know that can't always trust the results they get. okayso is an app that gives users access to experts they can trust who provide accurate, personalized answers, information, and support. Through okayso, we're able to talk with users to clarify exactly what's happening and give them the most accurate response. We're also able to follow up and see how they're doing later on. It's like having your very own health educator in your pocket, available at all times.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I grew up in a conservative family in the Midwest and I wasn't allowed to take sex education in high school. I had to find out everything for myself. We live in a world where all the shame, stigma, and misinformation associate with sexual health can cause people to live their entire lives thinking they're broken or not good enough. My goal is to see an entire generation of young people grow up knowing about consent, communication, safety, and pleasure - I think that has the power to change the world.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
All of us are trying to be "seen" in some way. Providing information is great but the more we can connect with the fears, insecurities and self-beliefs that are motivating people's questions, the more effective we will be. Some questions we receive are straightforward, but most are really fears about not being normal or whether we're worthy of love or other deeply human insecurities. Without addressing these underlying issues, true behavior change is almost impossible.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
During my years in this field I've talked with thousands of people about sexuality. Most of them were convinced there was something wrong with them. All of them felt alone. Our most basic human need is to feel connected and loved and all people deserve to experience this in all aspects of their lives.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
We are the fortunate recipients of one of Power to Decide's Innovation Next grants. We are so grateful for Power to Decide's commitment to okayso's mission and love getting our users connected to Bedsider whenever they have questions about contraception!
*Responses have been edited for clarityMon, 10 Dec 2018 09:50:51 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/december-2018-power-playerSupporting Teens by Engaging the Villagehttps://powertodecide.org/news/supporting-teens-engaging-village
As the saying goes, “it takes a village” to raise and support children. This holds true when it comes to supporting parents and champions to have ongoing conversations with their children about sex, love, and relationships. We know from data and conversations with young people that they want to talk to their parents and the other adult champions in their lives about these important topics. We also know that parents and champions want to talk to the young people in their lives about these topics, but they need more support about how to start the conversations and keep them going. Families Talking Together (FTT)—an evidence-based program that has been found to help parents have more effective conversations with adolescents leading to better outcomes for those young people—is a tool that helps parents do just that.
Power to Decide, in partnership with Dr. Guilamo-Ramos at the Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health at New York University and Adolescent AIDS Program of Montefiore Medical Center and Behavioral Health Solutions of South Texas, recently explored a new way of engaging parents in this program, through the use of promotores. Through this project, we learned:
The FTT program, delivered by promotores, improves parent-adolescent communication about sex;
Latino families perceive promotores to be accessible (we recruited more than 600 parents and their adolescents in this project); and
Parents preferred to receive FTT coaching sessions with the promotores in their home.
This project suggests that engaging community partners to empower parents can help increase parents’ likelihood of talking to their adolescents about sex, love, and relationships. Three cheers to the power of parents and communities!Wed, 28 Nov 2018 10:23:49 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/supporting-teens-engaging-villageNYMPod 09: Cornbread and Clapbacks: Your Guide to Surviving the Holidayshttps://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-09-cornbread-and-clapbacks-your-guide-surviving-holidays
On this episode of the podcast, we're joined by Sarah Ashely, our resident sexpert, and the lovely Everse! We're chatting it up about how to survive your family's expectations and criticisms during the holiday season. Plus, we asked our listeners to tell us the craziest thing their family has said during holiday dinners and we give (questionable) advice on how to "respectfully" clap-back with epic responses! Happy listening and Happy Holidays!Mon, 26 Nov 2018 16:43:15 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-09-cornbread-and-clapbacks-your-guide-surviving-holidaysWhat Not to Say During the Holidayshttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-not-say-during-holidays
The holiday season is a wonderful time to connect (or reconnect) with the young person in your life. When life has us all a little busy, it’s nice to sit down for a face-to-face dinner and just relax with each other. But did you know it can be hard for some young people to relax at family gatherings because they feel anxiety about dinner conversation? No one is grateful for awkward moments that sometimes arise during holidays with loved ones. As parents, guardians, and champions, it’s important to remember to respect your young person’s boundaries during the holidays.
Topics to Avoid at the Holiday Dinner
For starters, Thanksgiving is arguably the most food-centered holiday in our country. Mealtime brings a number of opportunities to stick your foot in your mouth—but you don’t have to! As everyone around you eats turkey and other delicacies, it’s best to mind your own plate. Avoid joking or criticizing how much or how little food your young person is eating. Commentary about their weight is also a bad idea. You want them to feel comfortable, not self-conscious, about being in the same space with you just as they are. If you have to make small talk about eating, use the occasion to compliment the cook(s) on the delicious dish.
Holiday food is already heavy enough; try your best to keep the conversations light. It’s not a good time to broach topics that have been bothering you about the young person you love. Be careful not to reveal personal issues they have shared with you in confidence. Whether you feel disappointment over bad grades or bad decisions, table those discussions for later. You don’t want their memory of the holiday—or yours—to be overshadowed by a fight.
Romance is another potentially embarrassing topic to steer clear of. If your young person doesn’t volunteer information about their love life, then it’s probably not something they want to be mentioned in front of everyone. Try not to ask them questions about “why” they are single, or about what happened to that guy or girl they were dating last year, last month, or last week.
We know you care about your young person and you want them to live their best life. But keep in mind that your attempts to show concern can be hurtful if expressed in certain ways. For example, these common phrases do more harm than good:
"Where did I go wrong with you?” Try instead to demonstrate compassion for how they may be feeling.
“Oh, this is just a phase.” Avoid dismissing their decisions, beliefs, or identity as trivial or temporary.
"Have you put on/lost weight?” Rather, find something to compliment about their appearance.
The best way to show your support for young people during the holidays is to listen to them and respect their boundaries. Talking is Power, of course, and your young person will surely appreciate your input at the right time and place. If you absolutely must use the occasion to check in with them, try to do so in a more private setting, rather than in public. Focus on enjoying each other’s company—and the food! Think of the holiday dinner table as an opportunity to feed your relationship with love, laughter, and an extra helping of smiles.Wed, 21 Nov 2018 09:49:03 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-not-say-during-holidaysProtecting Science at Federal Agencieshttps://powertodecide.org/news/protecting-science-federal-agencies
In this week of giving thanks, it is a good time to thank the many hard-working Federal scientists and researchers whose efforts contribute to protecting public health, safety, and well-being. Unfortunately, some of their work has gotten harder recently, as federal agencies have seen science politicized, mischaracterized, and suppressed under the current Administration in ways that pose risks for public health among other issues. A new report from a wide-ranging group of organizations that promote science-based policy making, including Power to Decide, describes threats to the use of science in government decisions regarding public health and other issues, and recommends steps Congress can take in response.
Several of the most troubling examples of substituting political ideology for evidence, or ignoring established science, which are detailed in Protecting Science at Federal Agencies: How Congress Can Help, directly interfere with the ability of young people and women of all ages to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. These include: mischaracterizing research in the rules expanding exemptions for employers and universities who object to covering some or all forms of contraception under the Affordable Care Act; putting ideology over evidence in attempting to dismantle the evidence-based Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program and disrupt valuable ongoing research; and undermining the Title X Family Planning program by cancelling research, shortening grants, and weakening the focus on high quality contraceptive care.
In addition to Power to Decide, contributors to the report include Climate Science Legal Defense Fund, Democracy Forward, Environmental Integrity Project, Environmental Protection Network, Government Accountability Project, Greenpeace, National Federation of Federal Employees, National Partnership for Women & Families, Power to Decide, Project on Government Oversight, and Union of Concerned Scientists.
Let’s express appreciation to federal scientists and researchers by ensuring the integrity and quality of their work is protected. To learn more, read the report, check out #sideliningscience, and ask Congress to restore accountability and scientific integrity in the policy and regulatory process.Tue, 20 Nov 2018 11:22:10 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/protecting-science-federal-agenciesGiving Thankshttps://powertodecide.org/news/giving-thanks
As Thanksgiving approaches I’m immersing myself in baking pies and comparing turkey cooking methods with my dad. I’m also spending some time thinking about my year. Like many families, each Thanksgiving my family pauses before we eat to mention a few things that have happened since the last time we gathered that we’re thankful for. Usually I say I’m thankful for my dog, but I’m super aware right now of how lucky I am to have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. This year my answer is going to sound a little different.
First, I’m thankful that I can choose my birth control method. We know that when women have control over their reproductive health that they are more likely to chase their dreams, both educational and professional. But too many young people—especially those who are economically disadvantaged or marginalized—lack that power. And a recent poll conducted by Power to Decide, shows that 72% of young people 18 to 29 years old are concerned that women may not be able to access the full range of birth control methods in the future because of changes in the political landscape. So I’m thankful to live and work in a place where insurance will cover my preferred method without any cost to me and where I can choose a doctor who supports my choices.
My doctor isn’t the only one that supports me. My friends have always got my back. And so do my coworkers. They willingly listen to my complaints and offer support and advice when I need it. I’m thankful to have such an awesome network of people where everyone supports one another’s choices, professional, personal, and birth control related. Working at Power to Decide, we share the love for birth control every day, and we encourage you to do the same. Write to us and tell us your birth control story!
I am so grateful for so much in my life and I want to pass along a measure of the support I’ve received to help others. So throughout the year I look for organizations I can support whose mission I am 100% behind. If you’re in a position to do the same, help us help women without the power to decide. More than 19 million US women live in contraceptive deserts, or counties in which there is not reasonable access to a clinic that provides the full range of contraceptive methods. Help us give the gift of birth control by donating today.
What are you thankful for this year? Tell me in the comments!Tue, 20 Nov 2018 09:17:21 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/giving-thanksNovember 2018 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/november-2018-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Michele Stranger Hunter, MS, M Ed
Consultant, One Key Question, Power to Decide
Formally the Executive Director of the Oregon Foundation for Reproductive Health, Michele Stranger Hunter is now a consultant for Power to Decide. She works exclusively on our One Key Question® initiative, providing training across the country for primary care providers and others interested in supporting women’s power to make decisions around birth control, preconception health, prenatal care, and other needs.
What work have you done to ensure people have access to reproductive health information and services so they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
For over 40 years I designed and provided healthcare services to teens and young women. I also worked to improve the quality of prevention services provided to women with the least resources and their families. These experiences led to my creation of One Key Question® (OKQ), an initiative designed to equally support women who want to become pregnant and those who want to prevent pregnancy.
Integrating routine, proactive pregnancy intention screening in primary health care and public health programs, the OKQ question is: “Would you like to become pregnant in the next year?” With four possible answers: yes, unsure, ok either way, and no, women and their providers work together to decide if they need screening and information on preparing for a healthy pregnancy, contraception care, or both.
I am thrilled that OKQ is spreading across the country so quickly. Credited with changing the conversation and challenging existing norms in service delivery, in only seven years, OKQ is now used in 30 states.
How did you get started in this field? What was the driving force?
I’ve been driven by a deeply held belief that offering people a way to choose if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant and have a child is the single most important service we can provide.
Among the first generation of women able to get prescription birth control, I had the ability to choose. Growing up, I didn’t expect to have a choice. You got married and had children. Period. “The pill” meant that not only could I finish my education, I could have a career and an intimate relationship without risking pregnancy.
I got my first job as a 19-year-old college sophomore coordinating the first alternative education program in Massachusetts for pregnant teenagers. At that time pregnancy was considered so contagious that teenage girls were forced to leave school if they got pregnant. I was hired on the assumption that teens would comfortably relate to me, a teen myself. I went on to focus on prevention and received one of the first Title X family planning grant in the country. The grant allowed us to offer birth control supplies and services.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Trust the people you are working on behalf of. They know what they need most. Trust they will tell you if you ask.
Whenever possible, work together with other organizations; don’t go forward alone. It’s natural to feel like you’re competing for the same limited attention, money, and space, but inter-organizational teamwork will do more for those we all wish to help.
Don’t get discouraged by the barriers; they can always be overcome! Take a step back to get the perspective needed to create a solution on a different level.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people regardless of who they are or where they live have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life?
Instead I would ask, “why should someone care that America is the only industrialized country in the world where more women are dying from childbirth every year?” We know that half of these deaths are preventable.
A person’s health always matters – not just when they are or want to become pregnant. Every person with a uterus should have the reproductive health information and services they need to have true reproductive autonomy. Everyone deserves the ability to choose if, when and under what circumstance they want to become pregnant and have child, regardless of race, income, insurance, or where they live.
Is there a highlight about your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
Power to Decide enthusiastically adopted OKQ in July 2017. Ginny Ehrlich (Power to Decide’s CEO), developed a working partnership with OKQ while I was the Executive Director of the Oregon Foundation for Reproductive Health. As soon as Ginny learned that OFRH was changing its focus, she offered Power to Decide to take on OKQ. Power to Decide didn’t commit to simply support OKQ, but also to grow the concept and program capacity to national scope and scale!
Power to Decide enabled the survival and growth of OKQ as a groundbreaking initiative. Because of that leadership decision, we are on course to create meaningful change across the country!Mon, 19 Nov 2018 10:15:40 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/november-2018-power-playerSo, Your Young Person Has an STI—Now What? https://powertodecide.org/news/so-your-young-person-has-sti-now-what
Being diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can be a scary time for a young person. As a parent, guardian, or champion, you might have a range of emotions finding out a young person you care has an STI—concern, worry, surprise. You may be wondering what you can do to support them through it. Here are a few tips you can use:
First, if your young person tells you that think they may have an infection or that they have been diagnosed with one, it’s a great sign that the lines of communication are open between you. Reassure them of your continued love and support. Your young person may fear you are disappointed in them or ashamed of them because of their STI. Let them know their diagnosis does not change how you feel about them. They will need someone they can talk to without the sting of judgment.
Next, make sure they’re getting the treatment they need. Have they already seen a health care provider? If not, offer to take them. If they want to go alone, talk them through what to expect and help identify whatever medical or insurance documents they might need. Have they received any medication they need? Make sure they get it and take it as directed. Some STIs are easily treated and have no long-lasting effects. Others, like herpes, HPV, and HIV, are infections that stay in someone’s body and have the potential cause problems throughout life.
Although they have received the diagnosis of a physical infection, dealing with the social and psychological stigma of an STI could affect their mental health as well. Their self-esteem or self-image might take a hit. This is especially true for long-term infections. It can help you both know that STIs are very common among young people. The CDC reports data that suggests young people (ages 15-24) have half of all new STI cases. Communicate to them that their diagnosis, nor any statistic, does not define who they are.
Sometimes young people fear the permanent loss of their love life—or sex life—after contracting an STI. That couldn’t be further from the reality of many people who go on to lead happy, fulfilling lives after testing positive for an STI. Reassure your young person that not only are they still valuable and worthy of romantic love but that it’s well within their reach. Talk with them about strategies to reduce their risk of getting another infection and of passing an infection they have on to their partner. Some parents leave condoms in a specific place in the house where they can be taken with no questions asked. You might also talk with a health care provider about medicines they can take to treat their infection that also helps reduce the chance of passing it to their partner.
It may be tempting—for you or your young person—to hope an STI is just a bad dream that will go away if you avoid discussing it. But part of living with an infection is facing it head-on. Though these conversations (like many about sex) may be uncomfortable, they are necessary. Encourage your young person to get informed and stay informed about STIs. Direct them to resources about the signs (or lack thereof) of potential outbreaks, the medication(s) they may need, and how they can take care of themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. And if you don’t know, don’t feel intimidated—this is a learning opportunity for parents, guardians, and champions, too!Wed, 14 Nov 2018 08:00:00 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/so-your-young-person-has-sti-now-what#ThxBirthControl: 8 Celebs Speaking Out About Their Birth Controlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/thxbirthcontrol-8-celebs-speaking-out-about-their-birth-control
Each year #ThxBirthControl Day invites people to share how birth control has changed their lives. Though birth control is commonly used for pregnancy and STI prevention, it remains stigmatized. It’s great to have public figures who are willing to speak out about their preferred method of birth control to help normalize it and its various uses. Here are some celebrities who are sharing with the world the different reasons they love and use contraception.
1. Kelly Clarkson
After two complicated pregnancies, Kelly Clarkson has decided to close up shop. Her experience with constant nausea and extreme dehydration during both of her pregnancies resulted in her final decision to get her tubes tied—she even demanded her husband get a vasectomy. "I was literally pregnant with Remi, and I was like, 'You are getting fixed. This will never happen to me again,’" she told Jenny McCarthy during an interview on The Jenny McCarthy Show. "I literally told my OB-GYN on the table while open, 'If I get pregnant again, I will find you!'"
2. Shay Mitchell
Shay Mitchell loves being in total control over her reproductive health and strives to help others do the same. She teamed up with Know Your Birth Control, a campaign which aims to educate and empower women about contraception options available. Shay revealed in an interview with Well+Good that prior to her partnership, she didn’t quite have all the facts on her preferred birth control method, the pill. “It was interesting because I could have sworn I knew everything [about birth control], but there were some things I didn’t. For instance, you have to take a pill at the same time every single day. I’m constantly setting reminders on my phone so I don’t forget, but it’s something you get used to after a while.”
3. Tahj Mowry
Tahj Mowry may play a surrogate father to his best friend’s baby on Freeform's hit comedy show Baby Daddy, but he’s not looking to become a father in real life anytime soon. Aside from his career, Tahj takes pride in being the best uncle he can be to his older celebrity twin sisters’ (Tia and Tamera Mowry) children. “There’s something so great about playing with your nephew and then like, when you’re tired, you like hand him off back to your sister,” he said in an interview with Rolling Out. “I always joke with people that having nephews is the best birth control there is.”
4. Jhené Aiko
Though birth control is proven to be an effective way to prevent pregnancy, some women turn to it for other health reasons. Jhené Aiko recently laid out her intense beauty routine in an Instagram comment, attributing her clear complexion to Fraxel treatments, serums and supplements—including birth control. “I take collagen pills, drink Kangen water, apple cider vinegar and take SuperFood by Dr. Schuzles daily. I used to have cystic acne due to ovarian cyst. The b.c. [birth control pills] helps with that.” Cheers to Jhené for spilling the tea to achieving flawless skin and a healthy glow!
5. Cardi B
If you follow Cardi B on Instagram, then you know she has absolutely no filter when it comes to expressing herself—and her sex life. Though she and husband Offset welcomed a baby girl (Kulture Kiari Cephus) earlier this year, the couple may not be looking for baby no. 2 anytime soon. Cardi recently made headlines after an altercation with rapper Nicki Minaj during her stay in Milan for Fashion Week. However, fighting isn’t the only thing that occurred that weekend. Apparently, Cardi and Offset shared a little “quality time” as she can be seen in an Instagram Live to her fans questioning if she remembered to take her Plan B (since waking up from her long night of lovin’). Who knows, maybe baby Kulture will be a big sister sooner than anticipated.
6. Nikki Bella
Nikki Bella loves a good smack-down, but not so much the idea of becoming a mother. She recently changed her views on having children—expressing she doesn't want kids until her 40s. Nikki previously considered having children with former fiancé and pro wrestler John Cena, but the two called off their engagement over differing views about parenting. Since then, Nikki says her 15-month-old niece, Birdie, has been "the best form of birth control," as she continues to contemplate having children right now. “Here I was dying to be a mom. Now I want to push it back. Can my clock tick until my 40s?"
7. Adam Levine
Before Adam Levine’s marriage to Behati Prinsloo in 2014, he credited his most serious relationship to be the one he shared with model Anne Vyalitsyna. Adam and Anne dated for two years before breaking up for good in 2012. During an appearance on Howard Stern's radio show, Adam told of the couple’s unconventional ways of preventing pregnancy: "[I use] a fool-proof birth-control system, [the pull-out method].” It’s debatable as to whether withdrawal remains Adam’s preferred method considering he and wife Behati have since conceived two daughters, Dusty Rose, 2, and Gio Grace, 8 months.
8. Jessica Simpson
Two and through? That’s what Jessica Simpson led us to believe before she and husband Eric Johnson took to Instagram to share the news that they are expecting baby no. 3. “We couldn’t be happier to announce this precious blessing of life,” Jessica captioned the IG post—despite her insistence last year that she had an IUD and would not be expanding her family further. “I have two beautiful children, and I’m not having a third,” Simpson shared with Ellen DeGeneres on a 2017 episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Well, never say never. Congrats to the family of five!Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:57:40 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/thxbirthcontrol-8-celebs-speaking-out-about-their-birth-controlI Voted. Now What?https://powertodecide.org/news/i-voted-now-what
Step 1: Vote
Done.
Step 2: Keep the winners accountable.
Whether the candidate you voted for wins or not, it’s important to remember that you’re responsible for making sure your representatives follow through on their promises to make your community a safer/more equitable/generally better place to live. If you don’t like the things they’re doing (like if they’re trying to restrict your access to reproductive health care) then it’s your right to tell them that. And if you gave them your vote and they’re letting you down, let them know that too!
If you live in one of the 50 states, you have two senators and one Representative who represent you in Congress. If you live in DC or one of the US territories, you have one non-voting member of the House. To reach your elected officials, call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and they’ll connect you. Or you can look up the phone number for their local office to talk to someone in your state. For more on how easy it is to call your members of Congress, check out this guide.
While you have your phone in hand, don’t forget to call your local reps too! You can use the Open States project to look up who speaks for you at the state level. What they do may not make headlines across the country, but it’s more likely to impact your day to day. To get ideas about what to talk to your reps about, check out our state policy portal.
Step 3: Stay up to date on the issues.
Have your state’s policies increased or decreased access to birth control in the last year? Has anyone in your state received a federal grant for teen pregnancy prevention? Learn about hot-button issues that impact the country and your state, so you know exactly how to fight.
Make sure the information you’re getting is trustworthy though. Fake news isn’t new, but the internet has helped it spread farther, faster, and look more convincing. So when you click a link on Facebook or Twitter watch for these signs: look at the URL, read the quotes and look up their sources, and see if you can find other outlets writing about the topic.
Step 4: Make your voice heard IRL and online.
Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are powerful tools for using your newfound knowledge of current events to educate your network. Here's how to get started:
Follow us to stay current on weekly ways to activate.
Check out our weekly #TakeActionTuesday call-to-actions, which are super easy to share.
Organizing an event IRL can get people in your life engaged in a cause you care about too. A postcard party is the perfect excuse to buy some wine and fancy cheese and invite your friends over! Once they get settled you can all learn about an issue and take action right away. Write to your representatives in the House and the Senate to let them know where you stand. Pro tip: Your postcard doesn’t have to be a complaint or request; saying thanks can be a powerful way to reinforce positions your representatives take!
No matter what you decide to do, know that helping more people gain access to the birth control method of their choice benefits everyone. If you’re looking for more ways to get active, visit the Power to Decide Activation Portal.
Step 5: Vote again in the next election.
Voting isn’t a one-time deal. You need to vote regularly in local, state, and federal elections to continue to hold your representatives accountable for their decisions. Each state has its own voter registration processes, so if you move remember to learn about new requirements and to re-register.
Wed, 07 Nov 2018 11:33:57 -0500MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/i-voted-now-whatThis is No Time to Sit Back and Relax, Young People – Your Votes Are Needed! https://powertodecide.org/news/no-time-sit-back-and-relax-young-people-your-votes-are-needed
Election Day this year is Tuesday, November 6.
A recent poll by the Harvard Kennedy School, Institute of Politics revealed that individuals between the ages of 18 and 29 are significantly more likely to vote in the upcoming midterm elections with 40% saying that they will “definitely vote”. This age group makes up the largest voting bloc, but we can make a difference only if we show up.
While young people may advocate loudly on many issues, historically when it comes to Election Day, they just don’t show up to vote. As a young person myself, I see it both ways. I see peers fired up and ready to go; campaigning, calling potential voters to make sure people are registered, and helping them get their absentee ballot sent in or create a plan to get to the polls. On the other hand, I see many peers in my hometown saying that they don’t have a plan to vote or that they’re choosing not to vote in the upcoming election.
Choosing not to vote? Voting is your civic duty, not a choice. We have a responsibility to vote, it’s a fundamental part of living in a democracy. Whether you agree or disagree with how things are going in our country, your state, or your town, you should cast a ballot on (or before!) November 6. Don’t think that your vote won’t count, because they do. Many elections come down to just a few votes. Just last year an election in Virginia came down to a flip of a coin to break a tie between two candidates. Having a say in who runs every level of our government is a huge privilege we have as Americans – we truly have the power to make our voices heard.
Something I hear a lot among my peers is that they don’t know who they are voting for because they don’t know much about the candidates running. It’s true that it’s important to be informed about who and what is on the ballot. With a quick google search you’ll be able to know where candidates stand on all the issues. Many candidates have an “Issues” tab on their website where it lays out their stances. Also, it doesn’t hurt to pick up the phone and call their campaign office to ask a few questions. Thanks to the internet and social media, today you can easily find information about all political candidates to inform your decision on November 6. BallotReady is a great resource to get all the information on candidates, referendums, and anything else on the ballot so you’ll be 100% prepared for election day!
I know I will be looking at where candidates stand on women’s health including birth control. Here are some questions to find out where your candidate stands on the important issue of birth control access:
Do they support public funding for birth control so women with lower incomes have access to the full range of methods?
Do they support the requirement that insurance companies cover the full range of birth control methods without co-pays (which the Affordable Care Act currently requires)?
Get to the polls, grab a friend, volunteer, and make sure you perform your civic duty. And make sure others do too! Young people have the power to make change, but only if we show up...
Make sure you have a plan to vote. If not, visit our activation page. Fri, 02 Nov 2018 13:40:14 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/no-time-sit-back-and-relax-young-people-your-votes-are-neededHealth Insurance 2019: Exploring Your Optionshttps://powertodecide.org/news/health-insurance-2019-exploring-your-options
Open Enrollment Starts Soon
The Affordable Care Act or ACA has opened its open enrollment period. ACA makes health insurance more affordable and accessible to millions, and even better, it covers birth control for women without any out-of-pocket costs.
However, all of these awesome benefits can’t happen unless you have insurance, which requires you to sign up. And that’s easy, just go to HealthCare.gov to find out what health plan works for you.
This year’s enrollment period is short though. So here’s what you need to know, or if you have health insurance already, make sure those in your life that don’t have it, have the correct information, i.e., help us spread the word!
Save the Date
The open enrollment period for 2019 goes from November 1 to December 15, 2018. That’s only 6 weeks to pick a new plan. And one thing that is different this year is that every Sunday (except the final Sunday, December 9) the website will be down for maintenance from midnight (12 am) to noon (12 pm).
Some states that have their own healthcare exchange, and several have slightly longer enrollment periods. But you’ll need to sign up for coverage by December 15 (in Massachusetts and Rhode Island you have until December 23) to have coverage on January 1. The states with extended enrollment (and their websites) are:
California: October 15, 2018 to January 15, 2019 (Covered California)
Colorado: November 1, 2018 to January 15, 2019 (Connect for Health Co)
Connecticut: November 1 to December 15, 2018 (Access Health CT)
District of Columbia: November 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019 (DC Health Link)
Idaho: November 1 to December 15, 2018 (Your Idaho Health)
Maryland: November 1 to December 15, 2018 (Maryland Health Connection)
Massachusetts: November 1, 2018 to January 23, 2019 (Massachusetts Health Connector)
Minnesota: November 1, 2018 to January 13, 2019 (MN Sure)
New York: November 1, 2017 to January 31, 2019 (New York State of Health)
Rhode Island: November 1 to December 31 (Healthsource RI)
Vermont: November 1 to December 15, 2018 (Vermont Health Connect)
Washington: November 1 to December 15, 2018 (Washington Health Benefit Connector)
Shopping for the Plan That Suits Your Needs
If you don’t have insurance go to HealthCare.gov and fill out an application.
If you already have health insurance through the ACA, you should still make sure all of your information is up to date. It’s also a good idea to browse available plans, even if your information is accurate, as the plan you have this year may not be the best value available for you in 2019. It always pays to shop around.
The health insurance marketplace allows you to compare different plans to select the one that’s the best fit for you. You can sort plans by the cost of premiums, or by how much you might expect to pay in deductibles before coverage begins.
Once you’ve shopped around and found the plan that you want, here are some tips:
Get your paperwork ready: To sign up for coverage, you’ll need everything on this checklist.
Use a computer: The healthcare marketplace is not mobile-friendly. If you don’t have a computer, head over to your local library to enroll.
There’s help if you need it: If you need foreign language help or other assistance, the Healthcare.gov website has a directory that can help connect you to local resources.
Don’t wait until the last minute: Six weeks can go by quickly, but enrolling at the last minute could increase your chances of experiencing technical difficulties.
Budget-Friendly Options
If your income is below a certain level, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help you get covered and stay covered.
Subsidies (a.k.a. premium tax credits) will lower your monthly payments (called premiums) for your health plan if you qualify.
Cost-sharing reductions allow you to pay less out-of-pocket for deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income individuals and families. Eligibility generally depends on your income and household size and it can vary a lot from state to state. As of September 2018, 34 states (and DC) have opted to expand their Medicaid eligibility. If your state is one of them and your income is below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, you should be covered.
Birth Control Included?
Plans sold through the health insurance marketplace must cover at least one option for each FDA-approved birth control methods for women without copays or deductibles. These rules apply to all Marketplace plans, so your 2019 plan should cover your preferred birth control method. When you go to the pharmacy to pick up your pill pack or to your health care provider to have an IUD put in, the cost to you should be $0.
The FDA-approved methods include both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs, the implant, the pill, the patch, the shot, the ring, diaphragms, cervical caps, and sterilization procedures. Birth control that you can buy over-the-counter—like the sponge, internal condoms, and some emergency contraceptives—is also included, but to get it covered your plan might require you to have a prescription from your provider.
While your insurance company has to cover all birth control methods, it doesn’t necessarily cover all brands. If you and your provider agree that a certain brand-name birth control is best for you, your provider must notify them and explain why you need to use that particular brand. Only then is your insurance required to cover it. Employers or schools with religious objections to providing birth control coverage are exempt from this rule.
If you find yourself confused about the price of your birth control, the National Women’s Law Center can help.
Know Your Benefits
Beyond birth control, the ACA ensures that many other women’s preventive health services are fully covered. There’s a long list of benefits, but here are a few highlights:
well-woman visits;
counseling on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV;
the HPV vaccine;
depression screening;
intimate partner violence counseling;
a wide range of prenatal screenings and tests; and
breastfeeding counseling and supplies.
Whether you’re buying insurance for the first time or shopping around to see if there’s a better option for you, feel good about staying on top of your health. You’re worth it.
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 14:32:55 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/health-insurance-2019-exploring-your-options#ThxBirthControl: It’s Time to Activatehttps://powertodecide.org/news/thxbirthcontrol-its-time-activate
It allows us to plan for a family on our own terms. More than 99% of women 15-44 who have ever had sexual intercourse have used at least one kind of it. What are we talking about? Birth control! And by talking about it, we hope to remove the controversy and simply acknowledge how much it makes possible for individuals, couples, and families everywhere.
It's nearly our favorite day of the year. A day dedicated to showing the world why birth control matters. A day where we shout, “Thanks, birth control!” Check out our top five ways to get involved and share your own birth control love.
5 Ways to Get Involved This #ThxBirthControl day!
1. Buy Some Merch
Make a #ThxBirthControl fashion statement by grabbing a t-shirt or hat and post a selfie while wearing it. If you already own something from our shop, wear and share a selfie.
2. Share on Social
Join the conversation by using the hashtag #ThxBirthControl on social media. We've created a number of gifs to make social sharing super easy for you. Join us at 2pm ET on November 13, on Twitter where we’re hosting a Twitter chat with Refinery29. @Refinery29 will lead the conversation. You can join in by responding to their questions however you’d like, including text, images, links to articles, etc. and tagging the responses with #ThxBirthControl.
You can also share one (or all) of these messages on your social accounts to encourage your followers to get on board with #ThxBirthControl Day.
Why say #ThxBirthControl? Because it gives you freedom and a future full of possibility. Get inspired: powertodecide.org/thxbirthcontrol
Do good. Inspire others. Tweet #ThxBirthControl and tell us why you appreciate your method. bdsdr.me/TBC2018
Think of what birth control makes possible. (Go on. We’ll wait.) Now tweet about it and use #ThxBirthControl powertodecide.org/thxbirthcontrol
Once a year we join @Bedsider to say #ThxBirthControl. Learn more and join us today: bdsdr.me/TBC2018
Birth control is life changing, right? You know it. Show your appreciation: powertodecide.org/thxbirthcontrol #ThxBirthControl
Today’s good deed: Talking about how important/awesome birth control is. Join us and @Bedsider: bdsdr.me/TBC2018 #ThxBirthControl
3. Make a tax-deductible donation to show your support for #ThxBirthControl
Your donation allows our organization to continue our work to ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant and have a child. Together, we are expanding opportunities for this generation and the next.
4. Submit your #ThxBirthControl video
We’re asking teens, young adults, and their champions to submit their very own FlipGrid videos about what birth control means to them, whether they’re using it now or plan to in the future! We want to hear from you, share your video with us today!
5. Talk about it
Whatever you do, talk people! We know how much you love birth control. And telling the world about why it matters is more important than ever. You can even share your birth control story with us. Your voice—along with your passion and participation—will help make this Thanks, Birth Control Day our best yet. It won’t be the same without you.Wed, 31 Oct 2018 22:46:56 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/thxbirthcontrol-its-time-activateComing Out: Let’s Talk 2018https://powertodecide.org/news/coming-out-lets-talk-2018
October is LGBT History Month and it’s also Let’s Talk Month, when we encourage parents and other champions in young people’s lives to talk with them about love, sex and relationships.
For many LGBTQ youth, coming out can be difficult. It’s an intensely personal experience. Some may prefer to just tell one or two people at first. Others tell many people at once, and some choose not to tell anyone at all. Awareness months/days/weeks can give the impression that there is a singular “coming out” moment or story, but for most LGBTQ people coming out is a process that repeats over and over in many different ways throughout their lives. If you have a young person who is LGBTQ in your life, you can make a meaningful difference in how their coming out process goes by showing unconditional support, strategizing with them about who they want to tell and when, and helping them find the words they want to use to talk about their identity and experience.
We collaborated with Real Talk, an app that allows teens and young adults to read and share their personal stories and experiences. Funded through Innovation Next, a partnership between IDEO and Power to Decide, Real Talk meets young people where they are, on their phones, and helps them connect with the experiences of other young people navigating the complexities of growing up.
This month, we are proud to share two coming out stories from real teens on the Real Talk app.
Real Talk User #1: “I said straight up, ‘I’m bisexual.’”
In the end of 6th grade I realized I was attracted to both Male and Female. I kept it a secret until the end of the summer when I decided to tell my cousin. I wanted to tell my cousin because she is in high school and I knew that she would be understanding. I pulled her aside and took her into the backyard where no one was. I told her, “I have something to tell you.” She replied, “Okay, what is it.” I said straight up, “I’m bisexual.” She said, “Oh really? I thought you were completely gay tbh.” We both laughed and she hugged me and said, “Does anyone else know?” And I replied, “No. And I don’t plan to tell anyone anytime soon” she nodded and zipped her mouth. We are extremely close and I am completely out and happy as can be that I didn’t wait until I was older.
Real Talk User #2: “The first person I came out to was my advisor.”
In middle school, the first person I came out to was my advisor. Sometimes I feel bad that I didn’t tell my mom or dad first but I really needed help on how to do it. My advisor helped me. I wrote a little speech and everything and practiced it on her. She was so great, no judging, and she’s not even gay. I told my sister next and then my parents. My parents took it hard but their good now. All in all, I think I was pretty lucky.
Both of these young people had confidence in a trusted adult/champion in their lives. You can be a champion to the young people in your life! Even if you don’t feel 100% confident having conversations about topics like sexuality and dating, telling a young person you’re there for them no matter what, keeping a neutral tone and expression, and guiding them to appropriate resources—or offering to learn with them—is essential to building and maintaining a trusting relationship.Tue, 30 Oct 2018 22:21:23 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/coming-out-lets-talk-2018The Trump Administration Deals a Blow to Evidence-Based Policy https://powertodecide.org/news/trump-administration-deals-blow-evidence-based-policy
Since it began in 2010, the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program has earned regard for being at the forefront of evidence-based policymaking. With a modest investment of $100 million annually, and a strong commitment on the part of dedicated federal staff and a diverse group of grantees around the country, this program served nearly 500,000 teens in 39 states and Washington, D.C. in its first five years. It also contributed significantly to building evidence about what works for whom and in what settings, and about how to implement and evaluate high quality teen pregnancy prevention models. Building on and learning from this strong foundation, TPP awarded a second round of 84 projects in 2015 and was on track to serve 1.2 million youth and generate even more knowledge.
Then, just as the projects began their third year of operation, came a surprise attack. With no warning or rationale, HHS notified grantees in July 2017 that their projects would end two years early. The announcement marked the first step in a concerted effort by political appointees in the Trump Administration to dismantle this program. A new brief, The Trump Administration Deals a Blow to Evidence-Based Policy, published by the Evidence-Based Policymaking Collaborative details the history of the TPP Program, the Administration’s repeated attempts to dismantle the program, responses by the media, Congress, grantees, and the courts to these attacks, and lessons for the evidence-based policy movement. I was honored to co-author this brief with Ron Haskins, who literally wrote the book on evidence-based policymaking, served as Republican co-chair of the bipartisan Evidence-Based Policymaking Commission and serves on Power to Decide’s Board.
A lot has happened since July 2017, and the story continues to unfold. We don’t know how it will end. However, two things are especially noteworthy and encouraging. First, Congress has continued, on a bipartisan basis, to fund the TPP Program - most recently continuing it at its current funding level and with its current language through FY 2019, which would fund the fifth year of the current TPP projects. Second, the courts have repeatedly found the Administration’s actions against the TPP Program to be unlawful. Four Federal judges in Washington DC, Baltimore, Spokane, and Seattle all consistently found the early termination of the grants to be illegal and the government has now dropped their appeals in all these cases. This means grantees can proceed with their projects for year four. In addition, judges in Oregon and New York found HHS’ effort to make new grants with TPP funds inconsistent with Congressional appropriations language requiring that “Tier 1” grants replicate programs that have been proven effective through rigorous evaluation. Those rulings stopped them from awarding these new grants.
We invite you to delve into the brief to learn more about all this, and to do everything possible to continue to protect this important program so that all young people can have access to high quality, evidence-based sexual health information that helps them decide their futures. Mon, 29 Oct 2018 09:53:51 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/trump-administration-deals-blow-evidence-based-policyHow Parents Shape Teens’ Sexual Decision-Making for the Betterhttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-parents-shape-teens-sexual-decision-making-for-better
If you are a parent, you have a greater influence on your teen’s decision-making, particularly about sex, than you may realize. And today, your teen needs you more than ever.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are at an all-time high – for the fourth year running. Adolescents are only a quarter of the sexually active population, but they contract 1 in every 2 STDs in the U.S. What’s more, 1 in every 5 new HIV diagnoses are in youth between 13 and 24 years of age. And, while the teen pregnancy rate has decreased in the past decade, there are still more than 200,000 teen births annually.
But, there is some good news. Less high school students report ever having sex in the past decade. More teens waiting longer to have sex is great, because it leaves more time for their decision-making to mature and helps them avoid the negative consequences of irresponsible decisions about sex.
Unfortunately, there is cause for concern, too.
While less high school students are having sex, condom use among those who do is declining. Roughly half of sexually active adolescents say they didn’t use a condom the last time they had sex. And the stats are looking worse for the most effective method of preventing HIV, STIs, and pregnancy: at less than 9%, dual method use is dismally low.
We know from science that teens rely heavily on emotions when making decisions. This is where parents can help. Studies show that adolescents with involved parents have much higher emotional regulation when it comes to decision-making. Particularly open parent-adolescent communication about sex and contraception has been linked to delayed sexual debut and condom use.
What you might not expect: adolescents actually want their parents to talk about sex. Typically, adolescents identify their parents, and that's older and younger teens, as being most influential in terms of their decisions regarding sex.
So, what specifically can parents do?
Parents best support their teen with involvement, communication, and supervision—skills taught through our program Families Talking Together. While talking about sex may be uncomfortable, it is crucial for parents to take the lead and initiate the conversation. Be open with your teen, look for opportunities for direct, nonjudgmental dialogue, and regularly check-in about their sexual and reproductive health needs – including contraception.
It’s important for parents to clearly communicate rules and expectations and to follow through. Your goal should be to be both accessible and consistent. Additionally, you should help your teen access contraception and give them guidance how to use it correctly and consistently.
Talking to your teen works – and it makes a big difference.
Fathers: this includes you too!
Our current project, Fathers Raising Responsible Men, works with fathers as a unique source of influence on young men and their decisions – beyond the role of fathers as disciplinarian and financial provider.
Based on preliminary findings, our project suggests that fathers can positively impact the decisions that adolescent males make when it comes to sex. It turns out, even small efforts like providing guidance and access to condoms really matter.
Overall, mothers and fathers are most successful when they teach their teen specific and applicable skills for making the right call when it comes to sex and contraception.
Parents are uniquely positioned to provide resources and opportunities that can change their teens’ future trajectories, such as after-school programming and healthcare. Similarly, strong and supportive parent-adolescent relationships help teens hold positive views of the future.
October is “Let’s Talk Month.” We invite you, mothers and fathers, to make it count and talk to your teens about sex. Talking about sex helps your teen make better decisions and it supports an open relationship that is good for you – and most importantly – your teen’s future.
Dr. Guilamo-Ramos is a professor at NYU, director of the Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health (CLAFH), core developer of Families Talking Together (FTT) and Fathers Raising Responsible Men (FRRM), and nurse practitioner at the Adolescent AIDS Program at Children’s Hospital of Montefiore Medical Center. Wed, 24 Oct 2018 09:41:44 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-parents-shape-teens-sexual-decision-making-for-better4 Ways Hollywood Can Help You Jumpstart Conversations with Young People About Sexhttps://powertodecide.org/news/4-ways-hollywood-can-help-you-jumpstart-conversations-young-people-about-sex
We all have questions about sex, and young people are no exception. Luckily, there’s no shortage of sex in the media to watch, read, follow, and share. Even though it’s not always portrayed in a positive or helpful way, it’s always an opportunity to start an open, honest, and even light-hearted conversation about sex, love, relationships, pregnancy, birth control – and the context in which it all happens—with the young people you care about most. Everyone wants to have these conversations, but nobody really wants to start them.
Parents and other adults are most influential when it comes to young people’s decisions about sex. But media matters a lot: Among 12-24 year-olds, 7 in 10 have learned something useful about sex, love, or relationships from popular media like TV shows or movies. In honor of “Let’s Talk” Month, here are five ways Hollywood can help you get the conversation started. Because #TalkingIsPower.
Watch, read, listen, follow, ask. The young people in your life likely have strong opinions about the TV shows, movies, social media personalities, and ads they like. Ask what appeals to them, and why. Try watching their favorites yourself. Follow the Instagrammers or YouTubers your young adult loves. Get to know the situations, personalities, and relationships involved. It’s a great way to learn more about their tastes, and to better understand the voices that are shaping their views. It will also give you a reason to open a dialogue on questions such as:
How are sex scenes handled?
What types of relationships are portrayed?
How do people treat each other?
Is contraception treated as a normal part of sex?
Just remember, these conversations are a two-way street, not a lecture.
Talk about “what if…” Among 12-24 year-olds, 2 out of 3 agree: when “there’s a story about teen/unplanned pregnancy that I can relate to in popular media, such as TV shows, movies, magazines, or online, it makes me think more about my own risk.” When a favorite character faces a tough decision about sex, breakups, or bringing up birth control, it’s a great opportunity to ask:
Did that seem realistic to you?
What would you do in that same situation?
How do you think they handled it?
What would you say if that character was your friend?
What do you relate to?
What don’t you?
One of the most valuable ways a parent, aunt, cousin, mentor, or ally can truly support the teens and young adults in their life is to help them figure out what they would do in the heat of the moment before they’re in it.
Netflix and Chill Out. Often, a well-meaning adult can feel so uncomfortable talking about sex with their teens and young adults, the only thing anyone remembers is awkwardness. That’s a huge deterrent to future conversations on both sides. If you and your young person are watching together you can talk about it in real time (see #1). But you can also binge-watch separately and then talk about it later. More than half of young people say that something in popular media about sex, love, and relationships makes it easier to talk to parents about these topics. We all love to dish about our favorite shows and characters. Get hooked together and the conversation will flow.
What does sex have to do with pregnancy? While sex is a hot topic in all kinds of media, birth control is often absent – or relegated to a “very special episode.” In fact, 7 in 10 young people 12-24 wish the TV shows and movies they watch portrayed birth control use as a normal part of sex. Fully 99% of women who have sex with men use birth control at some point in their adult lives. Normalizing birth control by talking about it, showing it, referring to it, and being open about it is an important way to take the taboo out and help young people feel comfortable asking questions. Because yes, they have questions. You don’t have to be an OB-GYN or have a science textbook on hand to give helpful answers…just bookmark StayTeen and Bedsider.
If you need ideas for where to begin watching check out what our partners are putting out. Start watching, start talking, and tell us how it’s going!Mon, 22 Oct 2018 14:24:23 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/4-ways-hollywood-can-help-you-jumpstart-conversations-young-people-about-sexLet’s Talk Month Urges Parents to Talk to Their Children – It Can Change Their Liveshttps://powertodecide.org/news/lets-talk-month-urges-parents-talk-their-children-it-can-change-their-lives
Adolescence can be tough. A constant driver in a young person’s life, peer pressure can often lead to uninformed decisions. Parents are in a unique position to talk to their children about issues that can have significant life consequences. Recognizing this, we launched Let’s Talk Month, a national public education campaign celebrated in October to encourage meaningful communication about sex, love, and relationships between parents and their kids.
Talking about sensitive issues can help parents better understand what is going on in their children’s lives, and the pressures they encounter daily. If you worry your child doesn’t listen or think they don’t value your opinion, you’re probably wrong. We conducted a survey that showed that the majority of teens say parents have the most influence on their decisions about sex.
For parents uncomfortable talking about sex, love, and relationships with their children, we’ve created a variety of supporting materials to help, including speaking prompts and videos. The materials feature young people discussing why talking is important and what they want to hear from the trusted adults in their lives. To learn more about these important tools for Let’s Talk Month, please go here.
Start early. Talk often.Fri, 19 Oct 2018 12:53:21 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/lets-talk-month-urges-parents-talk-their-children-it-can-change-their-livesGinny Ehrlich Speaks at the Inaugural Ohio Sex Education Summithttps://powertodecide.org/news/ginny-ehrlich-speaks-inaugural-ohio-sex-education-summit
Our CEO, Ginny Ehrlich, served as the opening speaker at the inaugural Ohio Sex Education Summit hosted by the Ohio Center for Sex Education at Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio. The summit gathered sexual health educators, advocates for health of LGBTQ communities, city council members, and a distinguished pediatrician and public health administrator, Dr. Joycelyn Elders, former Surgeon General of the United States, and the first African American to hold the post.
The sex education summit showcased research and evidence on why quality sex education is important, offered evidence-based guidance and resources for quality programming, and provided strategies for how to advocate for sex education in the broader school community. Further, as the links between health and learning are inextricable – the panelists also discussed the essential role that schools play in ensuring that students have the knowledge and skills necessary to make health decisions best for them and to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.
Read the full transcript of Ginny’s speech here.Thu, 18 Oct 2018 13:36:49 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/ginny-ehrlich-speaks-inaugural-ohio-sex-education-summitOctober 2018 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/october-2018-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Diana E Ramos, MD, MPH
Public Health Medical Officer, California Department of Public Health
What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child?
I led the development and implementation of La FAMILIA, a free preconception health text messaging program. The areas of focus are contraception, including a link to Bedsider’s clinic locater; healthy living tips focusing on healthy eating and being physically active; mental health; and sexually transmitted infections.
How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
I received my medical degree from the University of Southern California and completed my residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Los Angeles-County USC. I went on to get my master’s in public health from UCLA. Soon after, I began working at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health as the Director for Reproductive Health. I also continued as faculty at the Keck University of Southern California School of Medicine Department of obstetrics and gynecology.
Clinical practice and public health give me a unique perspective to understand the priorities and limitations that face operationalizing reproductive health priorities.
What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
Identify the issue you want to focus on and surround yourself with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and experience. Together you will accomplish more and do it in a novel way.
Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
Being in control of one’s reproductive health will help women stay on a trajectory that can lead them to education, a job, and the power to decide how they want to live their lives. Effective contraception will help them plan.
Is there a highlight of your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
The FAMILIA text messaging program is a wonderful resource. The California Department of Public health website has resources and programs for adolescents as well as reproductive age men and women.
*Responses have been edited for clarityWed, 10 Oct 2018 12:22:21 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/october-2018-power-playerMaking the Case for Birth Control: 5 Reasons We Love Ithttps://powertodecide.org/news/making-case-for-birth-control-5-reasons-we-love-it
Birth control matters for so many reasons and that’s why thousands of people nationwide who know this are saying, “thanks, birth control!” The why behind all this love for birth control varies, but one thing rings true across racial and socioeconomic lines: birth control is popular. We're not making it up: 99% of all American women who have ever had sex have used birth control (including 98% of Catholic women!).
It’s not just women saying, "thanks, birth control," either! More than 80% of American adults agree that birth control is a basic part of women's health care and 89% of Americans find birth control morally acceptable. Here are five birth control benefits we can all be thankful for:
1. BIRTH CONTROL ALLOWS YOU TO DECIDE IF, WHEN, AND UNDER WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES TO BECOME PREGNANT AND HAVE A CHILD.
Better access to effective methods of birth control means men and women have the power to decide how many kids they want to have when they want to have them, and who they want to have them with. Birth control also gives people the freedom to decide not to have children at all!
2. PLANNING PREGNANCIES MAKES EVERYONE HAPPIER AND HEALTHIER.
Deciding when—if ever—and under what circumstances to have kids means having more freedom to pursue educational, personal, and professional goals. A few fun facts:
Research has found a link between better birth control access and big educational and professional gains for women.
Research suggests that couples are more prepared to be parents—and more likely to stay together—when they can plan their pregnancies.
77% of women say birth control allows them to take better care of themselves and their families.
3. BIRTH CONTROL HAS HEALTH BENEFITS.
Being able to decide when to get pregnant and have a child has major health benefits in itself. In fact, it has the power to save lives. And it’s good for babies.
But the health benefits of birth control don’t stop there. Lots of women use birth control for reasons other than pregnancy prevention. Depending on the method, birth control can:
decrease the risk of ovarian cancer;
help with ovarian cysts;
help you get in touch with your body;
protect against sexually transmitted infections; and
help with heavy or painful periods.
4. BIRTH CONTROL IS GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT.
Globally, the United Nations Population Fund estimates that more than 63 million women get pregnant unintentionally every year. Giving women the tools to plan their pregnancies is good for both their family and also for planet.
Any method of preventing unplanned pregnancy is green, and there are some methods like the ParaGard IUD that take eco-friendly to the next level!
5. BIRTH CONTROL HAS CHANGED THE GAME!
Did you know that we sent a man to the moon before birth control was made legal for women? Or that there were no women CEOs of Fortune 500 companies before birth control was made legal? When women have access to the full range of birth control methods and have the power to decide their futures, everyone benefits!
So whether finishing a degree, waiting for the right partner, dealing with a health condition that could be aggravated by a pregnancy, or just enjoying their independence for a while, the decision to start a family should belong to the individual (or the couple). Wed, 10 Oct 2018 12:00:28 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/making-case-for-birth-control-5-reasons-we-love-itCatching Up with Innovation Next 2016 Winners, Momentos https://powertodecide.org/news/catching-innovation-next-2016-winners-momentos
While working with IDEO in 2008, Power to Decide used the process of human-centered, empathetic design to successfully reimagine sexual education for adults with Bedsider. With funding from the Office of Adolescent Health, Power to Decide and IDEO want to find others interested in giving teen pregnancy prevention a makeover. Using the Design Thinking framework, Innovation Next recruits and works with groups to refine their projects, so that they can successfully pitch them as user-centered ideas to other funders. Our staffer, Maggi, caught up with Julie Yegen, Laura Lourenco, and Sandra Paredes, members of one of the first cohort’s award-winning groups, Momentos:
Maggi: How did you first hear about Innovation Next and how did you form your team?
Momentos: We found out by word of mouth. We’re unique among the winners in that we all work for the same company, Westat. So we had all worked together on previous projects. Julie was part of the group that began the application, while Laura is a usability expert. Sandra speaks Spanish and was brought on to represent our audience and help us conduct our formative research.
Maggi: What was your team's original idea for Innovation Next?
Momentos: The Hispanic/Latino population has the highest teen pregnancy rates in America. We went into this thinking that parents weren’t talking with their kids about sexuality and contraception. We assumed they’d need convincing about the importance of these conversations and how to have them. Our initial idea was a digital toolkit for Hispanic/Latino parents disseminated by online influencers.
Maggi: Did your idea change once you began the Innovation Next design process?
Momentos: Yes! Sandra and Eliana Loveluck conducted Spanish language interviews with parents and we learned that our assumptions were wrong. Parents were having these conversations with their children and they understood their importance. We heard from a lot parents that they connected the fact that they hadn’t talked about sex with their parents to their own decisions. They saw how a lack of information impacted their lives and wanted to ensure that didn’t happen to their kids.
So the problem wasn’t that parents and kids weren’t talking about sex. It was what they were saying. Instead of telling their sons to use condoms, they’d say, “Put the thing on your thing.” Instead of telling their daughters to practice safe sex, they’d tell her, “Don’t ruin your life.”
After conducting these interviews and looking at the results, we rethought our design. We reframed it to say, “We know that parents want to have these conversations. Let’s see if we can help them talk about sex more effectively.” We wanted to give them specific information and help them to feel more comfortable when talking to their kids.
Maggi: What does your project look like now then?
Momentos: We used our interviews as the basis to create, test, and refine a Spanish-language text messaging service that provides weekly, practical advice to parents. The texts are customizable based on the age and gender of the children, and guide parents through teaching about sexual health and preventing unplanned pregnancies.
Maggi: Excellent! How did Innovation Next cause you to think outside of the box?
Momentos: There aren’t many projects asking you to get to work without having a solution already. It was a luxury to go in saying, “This is our idea, but we want to talk to our audience.” It gave us time to listen. We had so much room to create and think about what our audience told us.
We also had a sense of safety if we failed. Usually once you’re invested you can’t go back. With Innovation Next we had the ability to do more research as we moved through our project. The sense of openness and trust that we built in the early days helped us to brainstorm ideas without worrying about anything getting tossed aside. At every point we knew we could try things we wouldn’t have otherwise considered because they sounded too crazy. We embraced ambiguity and brainstormed out of the box. The supportive team dynamic that we learned from Innovation Next and Power to Decide was pervasive and over the two and a half years we worked on our project, it was persistent.
Maggi: What is your biggest takeaway from Innovation Next?
Momentos: One of the tenets of Design Thinking is that the audience is the expert in their lives. It intuitively makes sense, but approaching a project using it as your guiding star makes everyone’s lives easier. It became a mantra for us. The commitment of Innovation Next to use Design Thinking and to leverage empathy instead of sitting in an ivory tower allowed us to spend time with the community. We got answers directly from them, which changed our program design in meaningful ways. It touched every aspect of our program too. We wrote all our content in Spanish, and only translated it into English for ourselves.
Maggi: What future goals do you all have for this program?
Momentos: We know that the work we’ve done is impactful—91 percent of parents enrolled in Momentos used content to initiate conversations about sexual health with their children. Our hope is to secure more funding to continue the program and expand it. For example, we linked to a lot of existing resources, but we had a hard time finding strong audio/video resources in Spanish. We’d love to create those resources ourselves.
Innovation Next will soon open for a new round of applications. They are looking for diversity within the teams and for diverse projects, particularly those working with underserved communities. For more information, visit https://innovationnext.org/eligibility.
*Responses have been edited for clarityWed, 10 Oct 2018 10:44:57 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/catching-innovation-next-2016-winners-momentosThe Power to Decide Team Says #ThxBirthControlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/power-decide-team-says-thxbirthcontrol
When we say everyone loves birth control, we mean it! Nearly 94% of all adults agree that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—deserve the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant and have a child. With #ThxBirthControl Day just around the corner, we asked our team to share what access to birth control has meant for them personally! Here's what they had to say:
1. "I'm going to retire early and travel the world!" —Maggi LeDuc
2. "#ThxBirthControl for allowing me to travel" —Ginny Ehrlich
3. "No more agonizing cramps!" —Jennifer Johnsen
4. "Birth control has made me more passionate about reproductive health." —Joshua Issac
5. "My next baby will be a cat." —Kimberlie Burke
6. "Because being able to choose is better than having the choice made for me." —Gillian Sealy
7. "Two daycare payments were enough." —Colleen Crittenden Murray
8. "I'm thankful for going on adventures to see what the world has to offer with my beautiful lady." —Edwin Zelaya
9. "Because all women should have control over their bodies." —Allison McGrath
10. "For allowing me to be an aunt before becoming a mom."—Amiya Perkins
11. "Kids are expensive." —Christine Spears
12. "For making if, when, and under what circumstances possible." —Bill Albert
13. "My sisters have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances." —Everse Pullen
14. "Thanks, birth control, for keeping me kid-free." —Becky Griesse
15. "Thanks, birth control, for [fewer] migraine days!" —Jacqueline Pelella
16. "Because I don't want to be pregnant right now." —Katherine Suellentrop
17. "I just got good at keeping my plants alive. I hear babies are harder." —Lauren Kernan
18. "So my children can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to make me a grandma." —Julie Satterwhite
19. "Cause it's my life and it's my body" —Hannah Friedland
Mon, 08 Oct 2018 15:03:21 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/power-decide-team-says-thxbirthcontrolWhat if I had been asked One Key Question®?https://powertodecide.org/news/what-if-i-had-been-asked-one-key-question
Over the last year, I have been immersed in the world of pregnancy intention screening and specifically One Key Question®. A world that starts with a simple question – “Would you like to become pregnant in the next year?” – and leads to a conversation centered on contraception and/or preconception care. I wondered, how would I have responded over the years? In my 20s, I’m sure my answer would’ve been “No.” But as I’ve gotten older, become more stable, and developed my career, I bet my answer would’ve changed. I remember being asked if I wanted children and saying to friends or family, “if it happens, it happens.” If I found myself in the right relationship or in the right financial circumstances, I would be “ok either way” if I got pregnant. While I can look back and imagine my response at various doctor visits, I was never asked.
What is One Key Question®?
One Key Question® supports women’s power to decide by helping to transform their health care experience. One Key Question® is a pregnancy intention screening tool for clinicians and other providers who serve women ages 18-50 years old. It’s a question that gets a conversation started about what the patient wants related to her own desires about pregnancy and her reproductive health.
Developed in 2011, One Key Question® was originally intended for use in primary care settings where often, reproductive health and birth control were not addressed. Why? Because providers thought a different doctor (OB/GYN) was handling those health issues. However, they were missing a large opportunity to support women’s reproductive health desires, by not asking the right questions.
Why this question?
The original phrasing of One Key Question® was a bit different than the current one. After testing out a question with the wording “planning to get pregnant” and with no time frame, developers soon realized they needed a new prompt. Women wanted to tell providers what they wanted – something they were never asked. They also wanted it to have a more specific time frame. Hence, the birth of “Would you like to become pregnant in the next year?”
They also learned that this was not a Yes or No question. There are women all along the continuum between Yes and No. Therefore, four optional response categories go along with One Key Question®:
Yes, No, Unsure, or Ok Either Way.
What comes next?
While One Key Question® seems simple enough, it’s not just a checkbox on an electronic health record or health history form. The question and answer lead to a conversation about contraception and/or preconception care. That can include conversations about current contraception use and what women liked or didn’t like about their method. It can include a prescription for folic acid and follow-up visits for any chronic conditions that may impact a healthy pregnancy. Ultimately, One Key Question® is designed to provide support for ALL women, regardless of their answer, to have healthy pregnancies or to prevent pregnancies women themselves say they are not ready for.
Imagine your next visit to the doctor. What would you say if they asked you, “Would you like to become pregnant in the next year?”
Mon, 08 Oct 2018 09:00:00 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/what-if-i-had-been-asked-one-key-questionTalking Back: 5 Top Things Teens Want Parents to Know When Talking About Sex, Love and Relationshipshttps://powertodecide.org/news/talking-back-5-top-things-teens-want-parents-know-when-talking-about-sex-love-and
Whether they believe it or not, parents and champions have a very important influence on young people’s decisions about sex, love, and relationships. Parents want to be good sexual health educators, but may not always have the tools to do the job well. Though it may seem like a lot of pressure, there are ways to have quick, easy, and meaningful conversations about sex with the young person in your life. To help you conduct a successful conversation, we provided five things teens want parents to understand before navigating “the talk” with them.
Talk to us honestly about sex, love, and relationships.
Conversations about sex, love, responsibility and relationships should begin early on in a young person’s life and continue through adolescence. Start the conversation and make sure that it is honest, open, and respectful. Explain your sexual values and how you felt as a teen, then ask your teen what they think and feel. An approachable champion may not have all the answers, but they are a trusted adult with an open door for questions and conversation.
It’s normal for us to be curious about sex and birth control.
Teens are naturally curious and have lots of questions. Talking with them about sex, love, dating and contraception is a normal part of their development. Research shows that talking with young people about sex does not encourage them to become sexually active. Incorporating these topics into your conversations will help normalize them, build trust, and facilitate an easier conversation in the years to come.
Don’t assume our emotions aren’t valid just because we’re young.
Adolescent relationships have a significant impact on a young person’s ongoing emotional and social development. They also lay the foundation for romantic relationships in adulthood. Your teen’s emotions toward sex, love and relationships are very real and deserve respect. Help them manage their feelings by listening as much as—or more than—you talk. Your words are important, but equally important is making sure that their voice is being heard and honored.
Help us plan for our future.
Delaying sex includes helping your teen set meaningful goals for their future. Talk with them about what it takes to reach their goals and consider how sex might affect those goals. Encourage after school activities, community service, and the exploration of new interests and hobbies. This will provide your teen with an environment of champions who are devoted to helping them achieve their goals.
We really care what you think, even if we don’t always act like it.
Even if your teen stonewalls you or appears uninterested in these conversations, it’s your job as their parent or champion to keep talking. Providing a supportive and nurturing environment for the young person in your life forms a relationship that is warm and rich in communication. Don’t assume you’ve failed to reach your teen—they’re listening and want to know more from you. Be sure to keep the conversations going early and often.
Resources for Talking Back
(Note: Inclusion in this list does not necessarily imply endorsement by Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy. We encourage you to investigate your local bookstores, schools, neighborhood and community centers, libraries, and youth-serving organizations for additional resources).
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS AND CHAMPIONS
Survey Says: Parent Power
Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy, has been assessing public sentiment on a number of topics for two decades. One of the most consistent findings over the years has been the power of parental influence. Specifically, in survey after survey, teens say parents most influence their decisions about sex. Our findings in this 2016 survey paint a similar picture: Parents matter.
#TalkingIsPower: 2018 Champion Guide
Champions play an important role in helping to ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to become pregnant. According to young people, champions—not pop culture—most influence their decisions about sex, love, and relationships. The six tips provided in this resource will help guide you through a thoughtful, rational, and (hopefully) slightly less awkward conversation about sex with the young people in your life (also available in Spanish-language).
Consent At Every Age
Did you know that a healthy understanding of consent actually starts during childhood? Preparing your child and other young people to communicate what they do and don’t like helps them build a foundation to understand and respect the consent of others and themselves. Talking to your young person both early and often is powerful and impactful. This resource provides a few examples of how teaching consent differs at every age.
Tips & Tools For Trusted Adults: Pre-Teen/Early Adolescent
A champion is an adult, like a parent, guardian, other family member or mentor, that a young person trusts to speak with them openly and honestly. Use the tips and guidelines provided in this resource to start important conversations early, plan for the future, and build trust with pre-teens (also available in Spanish-language).
Tips & Tools for Trusted Adults: Transition Aged Youth (13-17)
A champion is an adult, like a parent, guardian, other family member or mentor, that a young person trusts to speak with them openly and honestly. Use the tips and guidelines provided in this resource to start important conversations early, plan for the future, and build trust with teens (also available in Spanish-language).
Tips & Tools For Trusted Adults: Youth 18+
A champion is an adult, like a parent, guardian, other family member or mentor, that a young person trusts to speak with them openly and honestly. Use the tips and guidelines provided in this resource to start important conversations, execute a plan for the future, and continue trusting relationships with young adults 18+ (also available in Spanish-language).
RESOURCES FOR TEENS
StayTeen Quiz and Discussion Guide
Ever think about sex? Of course, who doesn’t? Have you ever thought about what you will do when that situation arises? The best time to think about how you’d handle something is before it actually happens. What will you say? How will you say it? And if you do go all the way, how will you protect yourself, your partner, and both of your futures? We know teens are naturally curious and have lots of questions about sex, love, relationships and contraception. This quiz is designed to address and answer some of those questions honestly and accurately.
VIDEO RESOURCES
#TalkingIsPower: Serena
Serena, a mom of three and a midwife, shares why it's never too early to start talking about sex, love, and relationships with the young person in your life.
#TalkingIsPower: Dads Talking
Two fathers, Michael and Anthony, share why it's okay to say "I don't know" when having “the talk” with young people.
#TalkingIsPower: What I Wish I'd Known
Jared shares why conversations around sex, love, and relationships matter.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Advocates for Youth
An organization helping young people make informed and responsible decisions about their reproductive and sexual health.
The Great American Condom Campaign
A youth-led grassroots movement to make the U.S. a sexually healthy nation.
The YWOC for Reproductive Justice Collective
A collective of activists age 14-24 working towards ensuring reproductive freedom for all people (a project of Advocates for Youth).
Girlology & Guyology
A grassroots outreach providing age-appropriate, medically accurate, engaging and cringe-free messages about growing up safe, healthy and informed, especially when it comes to puberty and sexuality.Thu, 04 Oct 2018 14:53:30 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/talking-back-5-top-things-teens-want-parents-know-when-talking-about-sex-love-andExpanding Our Work To Meet The Needs Of Young Peoplehttps://powertodecide.org/news/expanding-our-work-to-meet-needs-of-young-people
Since its founding in 1996, Power to Decide has worked tirelessly to ensure that all young people, no matter who they are or where they live, have access to the information, services, and supports they need to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child. Throughout our history, we have been steadfast in our mission and unique approach to this work. Then and now, we engage diverse voices and perspectives to find common ground, use evidence to guide our work, catalyze innovation, and always put our audiences at our center.
Our nation’s teen birth rates are lower than ever and, more importantly, they have declined significantly in all 50 states and among all racial and ethnic groups. Rates of unplanned pregnancy among women of all ages declined for the first time in 2011. However, disparities persist and progress is uneven. Despite impressive strides, African-American and Latina women are 1.5-to-2 times more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy than their white counterparts, and women living in poverty are 5 times more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy than their more affluent peers. The system is failing these women. Knowledge gaps about birth control among these same populations remain. More than 19 million women eligible for publicly funded birth control live in contraceptive deserts, counties in which there is not reasonable access to the full range of contraceptive methods.
These systems inequities have prompted us to make an important change. We will expand the focus of our work to ensure that all people have access to the full spectrum of reproductive health services, and that spectrum includes access to abortion.
Why are we making this change? Because in these times, and in the context of health equity, it is critical.
How will this impact our work? We will help ensure that women have accurate information about all options available to them should they experience an unplanned pregnancy. We will also make sure they know how to access the full spectrum of services. Young women will find all the same information about of their pregnancy options on Bedsider, as well as where to access abortion services on the Bedsider clinic finder. We will weigh in on policy matters that confirm that women have access to the full spectrum of reproductive health care, including abortion. We will include discussion about access to abortion in our programmatic and field-building work, as appropriate.
This is not the first time we pivoted to reflect the evolving world and status of the issues—and it won’t be the last. While our mission and operating principles have and will remain the same, we recognize like most successful organizations that we need to constantly adapt to continue to serve and support young people. We have embraced the challenge and opportunity of change throughout our 22-year history, and we are excited about the opportunities this change will afford us. We will continue to do this work in our steadfast style with a commitment to an open tent approach aimed at finding common ground, an eye towards evidence and innovation, and always with those, we serve—young people—at the center. We look forward to working alongside you in our next chapter so that all have the power to decide, if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and have a child.
Ginny Ehrlich, CEO, Power to Decide Tue, 02 Oct 2018 17:11:46 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/expanding-our-work-to-meet-needs-of-young-peopleProvider Perspective: Can You Spell That?https://powertodecide.org/news/provider-perspective-can-you-spell
Have you ever called to make a doctor’s appointment and listed one reason for the visit when you really had seven? And when you got there it was easier to talk about the least important one first and the most important last, by which time the provider seemed rushed? Or have you left an appointment feeling totally confused, kicking yourself that you nodded your head when the provider was talking without fully understanding what they were saying? If you answered “yes,” you are not alone. Going to the doctor can be difficult, confusing, and frustrating. Below is some advice to instead help make your next visit productive, fulfilling and informative.
The first thing a provider should make sure you know at a visit is that if you are an adult, everything discussed in the visit is confidential. This means they cannot tell anyone what you said unless there is serious concern for your safety or someone else’s. For those under 18, laws of confidentiality still protect reproductive and mental health services. These laws do vary by state, but for most states, they cover STI screening and treatment, birth control and prenatal care. This means that the provider is going to discuss your acne and asthma care with your parents present, but can treat you for gonorrhea without anyone else knowing.
Sometimes providers ask a lot of personal questions and being unsure of why they need to know that and what they are going to do with the information, it can be tempting to be less than 100% honest. However, not disclosing the things you are (or are not) doing at home can be harmful to your health. This is because telling a provider misinformation can lead to wrong diagnoses, not getting tests and treatments you need or getting ones you do not need (and that might be harmful). This can be frustrating for both patients and providers.
Questions such as “what types of sex do you have?” and “how many sexual partners have you had in the past year?” can seem intrusive and irrelevant. However, the questions providers ask are not intended to just check off boxes in the medical record or aimed at shaming or embarrassing you. The questions they ask provide clues about what might be going on, what dangerous diagnoses can be ruled out, and what you are at risk for. For example, knowing the types of sex – anal, oral or vaginal – that you are having can shed light on what STIs you should be tested for and where they could be hanging out. If you do not want to answer a question, it is always better to say, “I prefer not to answer that,” or “Before I answer, can you explain why you are asking?” rather than lying.
As many questions as providers ask, they also want patients to be informed and to ask questions back. At their core, providers are science geeks who love to explain things that they find interesting, namely cool facts about the body. Asking, “What the heck is that?” or “What does that crazy Latin/Greek word mean?” or “Can you spell epididymitis?” is not annoying but rather an invitation for them to geek out, and for you to gain better understanding of your body.
When you go to the doctor, it is good to bring a list of questions and concerns with you. While it may seem silly or you may think you will remember everything, a list helps ensure that all of your questions get answered. There is no shame in having a list. After all, providers have them too, and often provide better care and avoid forgetting to ask you important questions when they use them.
One final thing to keep in mind when it comes to your health is that if you do not feel that a provider is listening to you, or if you get a weird vibe from them, or if you just want to see if you have a better interaction with someone else, that is OK. You have the right to say, “I want to schedule with someone else next time” or “I prefer ___ gender of provider,” or to find a completely new practice. If you do not think your health will be better with your current provider, you can and should seek a new one. Going to the doctor is about maintaining and improving your health and wellbeing, and nothing else matters.
Answering provider questions honestly, asking for clarity on what you don’t understand and seeking a provider you feel comfortable with is essential to having positive interactions at the doctor’s office. And this will, in turn, allow you to feel more empowered in your decision making, ultimately leading you to receive the best health.
Arin Swerlick, MD is a Physician at Children's National
*This piece is of her own opinion and not that of Children's National HospitalTue, 02 Oct 2018 14:19:06 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/provider-perspective-can-you-spellHispanic Heritage Month 2018: Celebrating 13 Latinxs Who Stand for Women's Reproductive Justice https://powertodecide.org/news/hispanic-heritage-month-2018-celebrating-13-latinxs-who-stand-for-womens-reproductive-justice
During Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) we celebrate the culture and historical traditions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Though history proves Latinas—and Latinx people—have had a complicated relationship with birth control, they continue to rely on methods like the pill and IUDs to allow them to start families if and when they desire. It was reported in a Cambridge study that 74 percent of U.S.-born Latinas (and 62 percent of foreign-born Latinas) believe birth control should be safe and accessible. Hispanic Heritage Month is a great opportunity for us to recognize the many contributions Hispanic Americans have made in order to help ensure women have the power to decide their futures.
Dolores Huerta
The legendary Dolores Huerta is best known for pioneering the civil rights and labor movements. She defines herself as someone who “supports a woman’s reproductive rights, who supports a woman’s right to an abortion, who supports LGBT rights, who supports workers and labor unions, somebody who cares about the environment, who cares about civil rights and equality and equity in terms of our economic system.” In other words, Dolores is a hardcore feminist who will continue to champion issues she cares about surrounding women’s health care and well-being.
Helen Iris Torres
Helen Iris Torres is the Executive Director of Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization committed to ensuring political and economic parity for Latinas. For the past 18 years, Helen has led HOPE in serving the Latina community with innovative programming that provides leadership development, statewide networking opportunities, and experiential learning to both adult and high school age Latinas. HOPE has been a strong advocate in expanding accessible healthcare for Latinas, including the implementation of teen pregnancy prevention education. In 2011 HOPE was instrumental in introducing the Communities of Color Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Act to Congress. The organization has also made teen pregnancy prevention an educational priority within its HOPE Youth Leadership Program, which impacts 300 high school age Latinas annually.
“Making sure Latinas have equitable opportunities in reaching their full leadership potential has been my life’s work. When women thrive, whole communities thrive, and an integral part of one’s success is access to quality, affordable healthcare. Access to accurate sex education that helps prevent unplanned pregnancies is healthcare. It enables Latinas—and all women—to reach their goals and uplift everyone around them.”
Gina Rodriguez
Gina Rodriguez has always been vocal about matters that extend beyond the screen. Rising to stardom as Jane Villanueva in CW's Jane the Virgin, she has used her platform to highlight issues such as immigration, women's rights, and education. In 2017, Gina partnered with Always to bring awareness to the lack of feminine hygiene products available to girls.
"The fact that one in every five American girls lack access to hygiene products is astounding to me. I was very lucky to not only have access but women around me who taught me not to be afraid of your own body."
Victoria Justice
Though Victoria Justice is committed to several organizations, the Nickelodeon star is most proud of her work with Girl Up. Girl Up helps grant access to health education and pregnancy prevention to women and girls worldwide.
"I’m so excited to become a champion for Girl Up and to help make a difference for girls who aren’t given the same opportunities that most of us take for granted. I know that there are plenty of girls throughout the country who are just like me—ready and motivated to stand up for the rights and well-being of girls in the developing world. I am confident that, together, we will rise to the challenge.”
Jennifer Lopez
Jennifer Lopez is a singer, actress, dancer, and philanthropist. Her philanthropy extends through The Lopez Family Foundation, which she launched alongside her sister Lynda in 2010. The foundation is dedicated to improving the health of women and children by providing access to quality healthcare and health education.
“We grew up in a neighborhood that was not privileged, with an awareness of what many must go without. The number of children that grow up without access to quality healthcare, doctors, and healthcare facilities, is unacceptable. Also unacceptable is the small number of parents who have access to be adequately and completely informed about critical child- and healthcare topics.”
JoAnna Garcia Swisher
JoAnna Garcia Swisher, known best for her role as Reba McEntire’s eldest daughter on “Reba,” takes pride in standing up for women. In 2011, JoAnna teamed up with Merck (manufacturer of the NuvaRing) to launch a social media campaign for young women to talk about birth control options.
“Women's health issues have always been an enormous priority for me, and I also love the idea of celebrating that we're an empowered generation of women,” she said. “I think it's a must to make your health a priority and want to encourage women to take control of their lives and to believe in themselves.”
Sonia Sotomayor
Sonia Sotomayor is an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, appointed by President Barack Obama in May 2009 and confirmed in August 2009. She has the distinction of being its first Justice of Latin American descent. Sonia has made a career of protecting minorities, women’s health, and pushing for criminal justice reformation. In a few notable rulings, she rejected Arizona’s anti-immigration law SB 1070, overturned Wheaton College’s ban on contraception, and ruled in favor of marriage equality.
America Ferrera
America Ferrera is an actress who strives to keep the activist momentum going in the United States. She spoke on ways to build communities through ethic and love at the Women’s March on Washington in 2017 and is a strong advocate for organizations that provide reproductive health, such as Planned Parenthood.
“I think that women’s health is an issue that is close to me, because of my community,” Ferrera said while attending a Planned Parenthood luncheon. “We’re only as strong as the ability we have to take care of the women who are giving birth and nurturing the next generation.”
Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard
As a member of the subcommittee that funds all government health programs, and as a co-chair of the Public Health Caucus, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard has been a longtime champion for programs to prevent teen pregnancy and to promote access to family planning services. In previous Congresses, she also introduced the Communities of Color Teen Pregnancy Prevention Act, which would provide critical resources and educational programs to address the disproportionately higher rate of unintended teen pregnancy among young women in racial and ethnic minority communities.
“Reducing teen pregnancy and promoting family planning is critical to the well-being of mothers and babies alike. A teenage mother is less likely to finish high school, more likely to be unemployed, and more likely to be dependent on public assistance. Her baby’s birth will be more vulnerable to complications, and her baby will be at greater risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and even infant mortality. By promoting sexual health education that accounts for cultural and linguistic differences, we can prevent teen pregnancies in communities nationwide.”
Zoe Saldana
We know Zoe Saldana as an actress whose feminist views drive her passion for seeking roles that depict women as powerful individuals—hence her strong female leads in Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Star Trek. Her feminist views are shared by her husband, Marco Perego, who took Zoe's surname when they married in 2013. As her husband's decision made headlines, Zoe took to Facebook to set the record straight:
"Why is it so surprising, shocking, eventful that a man would take his wife’s surname? Women have never been asked if it's ok for them to give up their names—why doesn’t that make the news? Men, you will not cease to exist by taking your partner’s surname; on the contrary—you’ll be remembered as a man who stood by change."
Rep. Raul Ruiz
Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. has spent his entire career being a fierce advocate for Planned Parenthood and women’s access to health care services. He has repeatedly taken to the House floor to defend a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions.
Ruiz currently serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and has spent the last two years fighting for his patients on the front lines against Trumpcare and other attempts to eliminate essential health benefits and free access to preventative health care services like mammograms, Pap smears, and contraceptives.
“As a physician, I have seen firsthand how institutional barriers to care have led to worse overall health outcomes for women and their families. In Congress, I continue to fight for health equity and to expand women’s access to affordable maternal and preventative health care services and protect a woman’s right to make informed health care decisions with her doctor.”
Maria Echaveste
Maria Echaveste is a senior fellow at the UC Berkeley Center for Latin American Studies and with the Opportunity Institute. She has built a distinguished career as a public policy consultant, lecturer, a senior White House official, long-time community leader, and corporate attorney. Prior to co-founding the strategic and policy consulting group NVG, LLC in 2002, she served as Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for President Clinton from 1998 to 2001. Currently, Echaveste serves on the board of directors of the California Healthcare Foundation, the Level Playing Field Institute, and Mi Familia Vota.
“The issue became very clear to me when, in my 20’s, I visited my family’s home village in Mexico, where my cousins that were around my age were already mothers with 4-6 children. My mother, who is a staunch Catholic but who believes in birth control, bemoaned the fact that in that village, the priests made it difficult for women to access information to be able to make the decision of when and how many children to have. Today, we are fighting that battle here in the USA with the repeated efforts to defund and limit access to family planning clinics—many of whom serve low-income Latino communities. All girls and women, regardless of income, need access to accurate and timely information regarding their reproductive choices—it’s the only way to ensure that a woman’s potential can be fully realized.”
Amara La Negra
Amara La Negra is a Dominican-American who continues to challenge racism and colorism in the entertainment industry. The Miami native has encountered racism on all fronts—from public insults on her afro to racists remarks made about the color of her skin—Amara has been diligent in calling out injustices and becoming a public face for Afro-Latinas worldwide. Like Celia Cruz, the late queen of salsa, Amara is one the few Latina celebs of recognizable African ancestry challenging a mainstream which has excluded people like her for too long.
“There is still a lot of ignorance surrounding the Afro-Latino community, and it has given me all the reason to want to keep fighting for it,” says La Negra, who was born Diana de los Santos. “Somewhere along the way, I started to feel this energy in my body – this need to empower other women, this need to liberate people. This need to talk. Why isn’t anybody saying anything?”
Maria Teresa Kumar
Maria Teresa Kumar, President, and CEO of Voto Latino and commentator on MSNBC is a dynamic leader and advocate who has dedicated her career to empowering Latino youth and engaging them in the political process. Her strong record of accomplishment has earned her high profile recognition, including being named as one of the 20 most notable Latinos under 40 by PODER Magazine, and numerous leadership awards including an Emmy nomination, the White House Project, Imagen Foundation and the New York legislature. At Voto Latino, Maria Teresa has guided the organization’s growth through the use of creative campaigns that incorporate the latest online and mobile technology, celebrity voices, and youth to create positive change.
“Voto Latino’s SOMOS MÁS campaign relies on the unique ability Latinas possess in engaging and uniting their communities. Juntas, we are more than intolerant stereotypes, more than crippling wage gaps, more than attempts to silence our demands. Empowering Latinas to make their voices heard at the polls will ensure that future officials recognize their ability to be agents of social change.”
Mon, 01 Oct 2018 13:25:11 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/hispanic-heritage-month-2018-celebrating-13-latinxs-who-stand-for-womens-reproductive-justiceHow Do You Teach Young People to Cope with Kids Who Have Different Valueshttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-do-you-teach-young-people-cope-kids-who-have-different-values
On August 23, 9-year-old Jamel Myles died by suicide after being bullied for coming out as gay to his fourth-grade class. The Denver, CO student had announced the news to his mother, Leia Pierce, shortly before then, to which she replied, “And I still love you.” Her warm reception gave him the courage to share it with other students. Jamel’s death prompted his mother to make this comment about her son’s fellow classmates: “...obviously the parents are either teaching [their children] to be like that, or they're treating [their children] like that."
Pierce’s observation reminds us of a difficult truth about the young people we love. As parents, guardians, and champions, we should talk to our kids early and often about sexuality, consent, and acceptance. Open communication about these issues helps them to shape a positive outlook on sex. But they may still encounter peers who have not received the same important messages. How do we teach them to cope with meeting children who come from households with different values about sex, love, and relationships?
It’s true that we cannot control what our young people’s classmates learn in their own homes. However, there are a few things parents, guardians, and champions can do to prepare for the moment our kids face this challenge:
Stay on message.
If another child introduces your young person to a harmful idea about sexuality, it can be alarming but remember you are still a primary influence in their life. Firmly reiterate what you have told them previously—whether it’s about their own body or about other people’s bodies. Try not to get frustrated if you hear them repeat the messaging they have heard from other kids. They may still feel a little confused. Even if it doesn’t feel like you’re getting through, your consistency and reassurance matter. Stay on message!
Be proactive: Provide them with talking points.
Of course, no one wants to imagine the day their young person might hear hurtful, untrue things about sex, love, or relationships. It is an unfortunate reality. Parents and other champions may want to prepare children in advance to communicate positive messages about sexuality. Let them know that they will encounter other kids who have been taught differently and that they have the power to be a good influence.
As you have these important conversations with them, kids can sometimes find it difficult to remember exactly what you’ve said. When you wrap up your discussions, try to leave them with three short points they can remember in a pinch. For example, after a conversation about bodily consent, you could tell them:
Don’t touch others without asking.
You can tell others “NO” if they touch you (or try to).
Tell a trusted adult if someone’s touch makes you uncomfortable.
Check in on your young person often.
In the best case scenario, the young people in our lives will feel safe enough to talk to us when they are feeling hurt, confused, or angry about damaging things they have heard from their peers. Many times, however, they internalize bullying or false information about sexuality without telling a trusted adult. So it’s important that parents, guardians, and champions remember to check in with their young person frequently, just in case there is an issue the child is struggling with. A simple, “Anything you want to talk about?” might help prompt a much-needed conversation. Even if their response is “No,” remind them they can come to you about anything. Just knowing you are there for them while they figure things out can give them some comfort.
Although it can be disappointing to learn your young person is receiving bad information from other children, remember that you are not helpless against it—Talking Is Power! The more you instill them with positive ideas about themselves, sexuality, and love, the more they will have the tools to cope. They will hear your voice in their heads and feel confident in what you have taught them. So keep talking, check in often, and the young people in your life will be better for it. Thu, 20 Sep 2018 12:54:55 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-do-you-teach-young-people-cope-kids-who-have-different-valuesLet’s Send Our Kids Back to School Prepared – Get Them Vaccinated!https://powertodecide.org/news/lets-send-our-kids-back-school-prepared-get-them-vaccinated
These days, thanks to the Internet, our children are exposed to more—good and bad—than we ever were at their age. Therefore, it was reassuring to learn from a survey conducted for Power to Decide, that our children are still going to their parents for advice and information regarding sex. Given our children’s confidence in us, we owe them answers based on facts and access to information that will help them live their best life on their own terms.
As parents, we are also responsible for making decisions regarding our children’s mental and physical wellbeing. I feel it’s incumbent on me as a parent to seek the advice of medical experts when making these decisions. As a medical professional, I rely on the facts and the science to make informed decisions regarding my children.
While we can’t protect our children from everything, there are some measures we can take to protect them against certain infections. The Human Papillomavirus (HPV), for example, is a very common sexually transmitted virus that can cause cervical, vulvar, vaginal, penile, anal, mouth and throat cancers. Nearly 14 million new HPV infections are reported in people, including teens, each year. In fact, the prevalence of HPV infection in the United States is about 80 million people who currently are infected with the virus. Further, each year about 42,700 new cases of cancer are found in parts of the body where HPV is often found and HPV causes about 33,700 of these cancers.
Because HPV is most common among teenagers and people in their early 20s, doctors recommend that preteens get the HPV vaccine to protect them from the HPV infection that causes cancer. In fact, the same experts advise that teens and young adults should finish the series of vaccines and give their bodies time to develop an immunity before they begin sexual activity.
As parents, we are always cognizant of what, and whom our children are exposed to and we take measures to limit the negative exposure the best we can. However, in the era of fake news, we must be mindful of who and where we go to for information regarding our children’s well-being. We must rely on evidence-based, reliable information which is supported by data and facts.
On any given day, every parent asks themselves, “Did I do enough for my child today?” Particularly, when it comes to their health, I cannot think of anything more common sense than to follow the advice of medical experts who overwhelmingly advise parents to get their child vaccinated. In fact, if given an alternative, why would any parent unnecessarily expose their child to the risk of getting any form of cancer, much less one that could be prevented with a vaccine?
Every parent approaches parenting with their own set of ideas for how they want to raise their children. While we should respect and support the decisions we make for our children, we must do more to make sure parents understand that the pros for getting your child vaccinated far outweigh the cons. At the end of the day, we must do everything we can to make sure we are sending our kids into the world ready for whatever comes their way.Wed, 12 Sep 2018 13:52:16 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/lets-send-our-kids-back-school-prepared-get-them-vaccinatedFreshmen Fifteen: 15 Tips for College Freshmenhttps://powertodecide.org/news/freshmen-fifteen-15-tips-for-college-freshmen
A revisited body positive, sex-positive, friendly look at 15 tips for college freshman
1. Get out there
College is an opportunity to start new. New home, new friends, and a new way of life. If something seems even the slight bit appealing, try it. Go for that photography club, take part in Greek life, or apply for student government. Whatever it is, say yes to new experiences to bring you out of your comfort zone. You never know where it might lead.
2. See your provider—make sure your health is in check
Go visit a physician. This is the time to ask your doctor anything and everything, and maybe even switch up your method of birth control. Make sure you're using a method that works for you. If taking a pill every day is your jam, get the Bedsider birth control reminder app; or if you just want to 'get it and forget it,' try a longer-acting method like the implant or IUD.
3. Doing long distance
If you are planning to go the distance with your partner, don't wait till moving day to discuss what it is going to look like—set ground rules and expectations. Going into long distance relationships—whether it's a new relationship or you've been together for years—is a challenge. Setting clear expectations and boundaries can make the transition a lot easier. For example, how many times do you expect to talk per day? How are many phone calls too many? How long will you go without seeing each other? Planning ahead of time for visits can give you both something to look forward to while you're enjoying yourself at school.
4. Get familiar with your college health center
Use those first few weeks to explore your campus health center's website. It is good to know beforehand what services you can expect and what the cost might be. If your health center doesn't offer a wide variety of services, your future self will thank you for finding another provider nearby. While you’re at, visit Bedsider.org to find a method that fits your needs and lifestyle—it’s always good to be prepared.
5. Keep an open mind
Be open-minded. College brings together people from all different ideologies and backgrounds. Get to know the people you sit next to in class and learn from them. Some of the greatest lessons in college do not happen in the classroom; they happen through the people you meet. Take classes that grab your interest and don’t stick to one thing—try it all. You might go in thinking you’re a Political Science major, but take one Psychology class that opens your mind to a whole new area of study. It's ok to test out different waters and find out what interests you the most. Take classes that you are actually interested in and don't feel pressured to choose a major right away.
6. Enjoy your “Me Time”
In college, it may seem that you must do everything with somebody at all times. No, you don't! Go to the café by yourself, go to the library by yourself, take a walk by yourself – it's ok. It's ok to say no to plans. It's ok to stay in. Sometimes that is just what we need on a Friday night. Explore your city, go to the local market, take up a new dance class, grab a bite to eat at a place you've always wanted to try.
7. Test your boundaries, but know your limits
There is a sweet spot between testing your boundaries and knowing your limits when it comes to anything in life. Whether it's work, classes, friends, or other relationships, outside of your comfort zone is the only place you'll grow and find out what works for you. You may be uncomfortable at first, but that is only growing pains. But when pushing your boundaries no longer feels like excitement and growth, trust your gut—if it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't right for you.
8. Dorm Rules
There's nothing worse than an alarm left on snooze for 30 minutes or an intoxicated roommate strolling in at 2AM when you have an exam the next day. To avoid these unpleasant moments, set boundaries early. From who is cleaning what, to house rules for having guests stay over, to quiet hours, setting boundaries early can save you much needed hours of sleep and stress. Remember, sexiling (Sexiling – The act of exiling your roommate at any point in order to do sexy things with your partner (no more scrunchies/socks on the door) isn't cool either.
9. Try online dating
Meeting people is tough, and college is a busy time! Give online dating a try—it is a fast, easy way to meet people that you might not normally cross paths with.
10. Don't forget your purpose + stay motivated
Starting off freshman year, it's easy to get lost in making new friends, joining a variety of clubs, exploring your college campus and city, or getting caught up in what parties are that week. But while you're having all that fun don't forget your purpose. At the end of the day, college is not only for advancing your career but also learning something you're passionate about. Find what your passion and don't let anything get in your way. You can have your cake and eat it, too, with the right balance.
11. Say no to bad sex
Simple: say no to bad sex. You are entitled to good sex, and if it is anything less than that, say no. If it doesn't feel good or your gut is telling you something might be off, don't be shy about relaying that information to your partner. Try to always go out with a game plan in mind if you begin to feel unsafe.
12. Explore your city + go off campus
After some time, you might feel like you're trapped in a fishbowl—same routine, same people, same atmosphere. If you can, get off campus and explore the city, town, or state you live in. Take a quick weekend getaway with your friends to a nearby destination, spend the day exploring a new neighborhood of your city or go to a local festival. One of the best opportunities college brings is being able to call a new city home. Don't take it for granted!
13. Don't rush into anything
https://media.giphy.com/media/bLDc0I7ys2YN2/giphy.gifBe picky! It can be scary at first to not have the comforts of home, family, and friends, but one of the sweetest things about college is making your own family. It is easy to become fast friends with the first few people you meet, but be selective when it comes to who you spend your time with—don't rush into any new friendships or relationships.
14. Love yourself first
Check in with yourself and know you're not alone. College is a time of crazy change from little things like different classes in buildings across campus, new cities, and shaping your interests. Your weight will naturally fluctuate through periods of change. While your mind is working hard, be kind to your body; it is perfect the way it is. And don't be afraid to take mental health days when your mind is overwhelmed and overworked! Do what feels right for you and show yourself some acceptance and forgiveness.
15. YOLO
We all have that one aunt or older cousin who refuses to let up on their “I wish I would’ve” stories about missed opportunities during their time at college. The truth is, you only live once and college is what you make it. Choose not to be consumed by the fear of “what if” and “what will they think”. Walk into each and every opportunity with your held high and when that small voice creeps into the back of your mind, whisper “YOLO” and choose to live your best regret-free life. Tue, 28 Aug 2018 12:18:54 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/freshmen-fifteen-15-tips-for-college-freshmenNew Report Highlights the Increase in Opioid Use Disorder Among Pregnant Women https://powertodecide.org/news/increased-opioid-use-among-pregnant-women
As the opioid epidemic has swept across the nation, the media has increased its attention on the number of individuals addicted to, overdosing on, and dying from opioids. A recent report from the CDC reveals another concerning statistic: the prevalence of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) among pregnant women is on the rise.
Specifically, the CDC report finds that the prevalence of OUD among women who have given birth at U.S. hospitals quadrupled in the 15 years from 1999 to 2014. At the same time, the number of infants being born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome quadrupled between 1999 and 2013.
Image Source: CDC, see the full graphic here.
The rising prevalence of mothers with OUD highlights the dire need for more effective policies and programs to help reduce maternal opioid use and fetal opioid exposure in the U.S.
And it also raises the question of whether we are meeting the reproductive needs of women who are dealing with OUD. We recently highlighted some examples from states and communities that are working to do just that. If you missed it, check out our brief and blog to find out if your state is implementing initiatives to improve outcomes for women and their families. Now more than ever we need to be advocating for everyone affected by this crisis.
You can see the full CDC infographic The US Opioid Crisis: Addressing Maternal and Infant Health here and read the full CDC report Morbidity and Opioid Use Disorder Documented at Delivery Hospitalization — United States, 1999–2014 here.Mon, 20 Aug 2018 09:55:55 -0400APerkinshttps://powertodecide.org/news/increased-opioid-use-among-pregnant-womenReading Between the Lines: Tips for Millennials https://powertodecide.org/news/reading-between-lines-tips-for-millennials
I went on my first date and had my first kiss all within about a week of one another—I was 16 years old. I wanted so badly for my mom to give me a spiel about boys or to have “The Talk” with me. Of course I never explicitly said to her, “Hey mom, so these butterflies in my stomach, what’s that about?” But she also never volunteered any information either. The extent of my mother’s warnings and words of wisdom were: “Be smart,” “Stay safe,” and “Remember who raised you.” Sure, the wisdom of Solomon, Oprah, and grandmothers past were packed into these three short phrases—but what my sixteen-year-old self had internalized from those phrases began and ended with “don’t die and don’t miss curfew.” I had no interest in reading between the lines, and even if I did, there weren’t many lines to read between.
During a graduation party for my younger brother, who is headed off to college this month, a few of the older cousins and I got into a hilarious debate about all the things our mothers hadn’t said. While a few of their mothers had spared no detail, the majority stuck to the “Be smart. Stay safe. Remember who raised you” mantra. I suddenly realized that, no, it wasn’t just me—parents everywhere are saying the bare minimum and expecting their teens—who still lose their house keys and forget to do their homework—to navigate the world of sex, love, and relationships. It’s not realistic. Although we can’t blame parents for what they don’t know, we can be sure to give tangible and comprehensive advice to the young people in our lives.
With my younger brother and a few mentees heading off to college, it’s dawned on me that it’s not only a parent’s responsibility to equip them with the wisdom they need, but it’s also my responsibility as a champion. I am breaking down my mother’s three mantras so that you (and the people you share this with) will forgo the coded language and prepare the young people in your life for the (sometimes scary) world of dating and sex.
Be smart.
My mom was a single teen mom. She raised me with the help of an awesome support system and a spirit of determination—and I think I’m pretty incredible! Still, “be smart” wasn’t just a caution to excel in my studies; it was also a warning to use protection when choosing to have sex or be intimate with a partner. Instead of imploring your young person to read between the lines, try: “It’s really important not only to study but to also ask for help when you need it” and “Are you thinking about sex? Let’s check out Bedsider.org to find a method that suits you. Dual protection is awesome!”
Stay safe.
My mom is also a lieutenant of a police department. When she says, “Stay safe,” with her head cocked to the side, she is most certainly warning me to be wary of new places, people, and situations. As you talk with your young person about safety, avoid assuming that what seems “safe” to you also seems safe to them. Instead, try saying something practical, like: “When you’re in situations that you’re still unsure about, like a party with new friends, on a date, or even just walking home after class, use the buddy system and always check your surroundings. Remember you can always call home, too!”
Remember who raised you.
I won’t sugarcoat this one—this was nothing short of a threat (haha!). When my mother yelled through the screen door, “Remember who raised you,” she was reminding me to be mindful of my reputation and the choices I was making. She was also encouraging me to make her proud. As we uplift the young people in our lives, let’s challenge them to live lives their future selves will be proud of, too. We can skip the fear tactics and opt for: “Remember every decision you make has a direct impact on who you’re becoming. It’s never too late to change course, either—life is yours!”
So to the millennial, still reading between the lines of their mother's mantras, remember the college-bound student in your life wants to hear from you. Start talking today! Sat, 11 Aug 2018 12:57:59 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/reading-between-lines-tips-for-millennialsBreastfeeding as Birth Control? The Benefits of Using Dual Methods https://powertodecide.org/news/breastfeeding-birth-control-benefits-using-dual-methods
In honor of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, we wanted to take a closer look at the relationship between breastfeeding and birth control. While many of you are familiar with the benefits of breastfeeding, you may not know that it also can be a form of birth control—but only if performed in a certain and specific way. Known as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), it refers to the infertility period during the first six months of postpartum associated with breastfeeding. When babies nurse, a hormone called prolactin is triggered to ensure an ongoing milk supply for the baby while simultaneously suppressing other hormones, including ones that trigger ovulation. If you are nursing and feeding your baby only breast milk, your body naturally stops ovulating. When ovulation ceases, so does menstruation, which in turn results in a short window of time in which women are infertile.
While this sounds great on paper, the LAM birth control method is actually 98% effective only if performed perfectly. By perfectly, we mean that it has been less than six months since you gave birth, you are only nursing (no bottles, formula, or food), and your period has not started again. Reliance or “overreliance” on breastfeeding as the sole method of contraception is the most cited reason for experiencing unintended pregnancy during breastfeeding.
Given the potential pitfalls associated with the prerequisites to accurately perform LAM, many medical professionals encourage nursing mothers to consider dual methods of contraception. In a recent study, researchers assessed the use of emergency contraceptive (EC) pills as a secondary method of birth control for women practicing LAM in Egypt. Using a two-arm randomized control trial, the researchers enrolled women who intended to breastfeed and postpone pregnancy for at least one year. Of the 1,158 women who fit the screening criteria, all received counseling about LAM; however, nearly half also received counseling about EC in case they havd sexual intercourse after the expiration of one of the three LAM prerequisites.
In their analysis, the researchers found that provisions of EC pills at the time of postpartum contraception counseling were an effective dual method of birth control in preventing unplanned pregnancies. More specifically, pregnancy occurred in 5% of the group only practicing the LAM method, while pregnancy occurred in 0.8% of the group practicing LAM and also using EC.
In addition to the decreased rates of unplanned pregnancy among the group of women using both EC and LAM, the researchers found that significantly more women in the dual contraception group started a new birth control method within or shortly after the six-month timeframe in which LAM is no longer effective.
Ultimately, this research lends credence to the importance of dual methods of contraception, especially among new mothers practicing LAM. Find the best breastfeeding-friendly birth control method here. Wed, 08 Aug 2018 16:53:56 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/breastfeeding-birth-control-benefits-using-dual-methodsImproving Contraceptive Access for Women with Opioid Use Disorderhttps://powertodecide.org/news/improving-contraceptive-access-for-women-opioid-use-disorder
Appalachia is an area of the U.S. that has been hit hard by the opioid epidemic. As someone who practiced medicine there, I have seen firsthand the negative effects of opioid use disorder (OUD) on families. I have watched women with untreated OUD and their infants be separated right after birth as the infants were placed in foster care. I have treated infants who were born with neonatal abstinence syndrome. Withdrawing from opioids they were exposed to in the womb, these infants were fussy, difficult to console, and struggled to eat and sleep.
Policy responses to the opioid epidemic have largely focused on prescription drug monitoring and overdose prevention, leaving reproductive health out of the conversation. Reproductive health is an important aspect of any woman’s overall health. Women with OUD, however, often lack access to reproductive health education and contraception. Thus, women with OUD are nearly twice as likely to have an unplanned pregnancy compared to the general population (86% compared to 45%). This is despite the fact that when surveyed, women in treatment programs stated that they wanted to learn about their contraceptive options and receive reproductive health services through their treatment programs, rather than from outside clinics. Many of the women I cared for who were in treatment for OUD chose to continue or start contraception in order to better focus on their recovery and plan future pregnancies.
To improve outcomes for families affected by OUD, initiatives in Florida, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, Washington and West Virginia are providing increased access to reproductive health care for women with OUD. Some efforts are adding reproductive health education to substance treatment programs and are allowing women to receive all methods of birth control at their treatment facilities. Others are improving reproductive health access for incarcerated women with OUD. It is important that these efforts be conducted with a reproductive justice lens, offering women the full spectrum of options and allowing them, if they want birth control, to choose the method that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
When practitioners discuss sexual health and birth control with women in recovery and provide them with the full spectrum of contraceptive options, they empower women with OUD to take control of their reproductive health. If you would like to know more about what is being done in the above states as well as more about OUD, please read our policy brief.
Arin Swerlick, MD is a Physician at Children's National
*This piece is of her own opinion and not that of Children's National HospitalFri, 27 Jul 2018 13:49:36 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/improving-contraceptive-access-for-women-opioid-use-disorderPregnancy Ambivalence: Still Not Surehttps://powertodecide.org/news/pregnancy-ambivalence-still-not-sure
Despite recent reports which suggest that millennials are dropping the ball when it comes to procreating and home ownership, the future does not depend on your uterus or investment decisions. It’s absolutely all right if you, like most 20-somethings, are still stumbling through life. And not just when it comes to your job, your education, your love life, or where you want to live, or what show you want to Netflix and chill to this Friday night—every aspect of your life is yours to decide.
Not knowing if you want to have a child (or another child, for the parents reading this) is not the end of the world. Let me repeat: It's ok if you’re unsure about wanting to have children now, three years from now, or at all. If societal pressures have you feeling guilty or confused about delaying pregnancy and not being sure about parenting, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. You’re not alone.
Between 1 in 4 and 1 in 5 women in the U.S. report that they would be okay either way regarding getting pregnant. In the same study, 53% of men and 52% of women said they would like to be parents now “if things in their life were different.” Even among those who say it is important to them to avoid pregnancy right now, 20% of women and 43% of men say they would be at least a little pleased if they found out today that they or their partner were pregnant.
2. And that's OK.
As a leading national organization that works to ensure all women and men—regardless of who they are or where they live—have the power to decide if and when to become parents, we’re saying that it’s all right not to know if you want to grow your family. There are plenty of reasons to want to get pregnant—and plenty of reasons not to. And you know what? They are all valid.
Pregnancy doesn't happen in a vacuum. Personal experiences and interactions with racism, poverty, and trauma impact how we feel about pregnancy, sex, dating, and sometimes even love. Not to mention, crippling student debt crisis, police brutality, questionable policies, and melting ice caps are all reasons enough to make us want to think twice about pregnancy.
3. Living your best life.
Certainty isn’t a prerequisite for living your best life. You can be empowered and confident that each and every day you are becoming a better version of yourself—without knowing for sure if you want to grow your family. Choosing to be present in this current moment, and planning for your right now is just as valid as future planning. There are still things you can do to take care of yourself so that no matter what you choose or what happens, you are in the best possible position to do what works for you. Self-care is a radical act of love—of which you are worthy.
So, in this “I’m actually not sure” phase, as you finesse those “when are you going to have another” and “when am I going to become a grandma” questions, find solace in knowing that you’re not alone. Get on a method that has your back, and continue to fight for a world that you’d be happy to raise your kids (or nieces and nephews or puppy) in.Thu, 26 Jul 2018 13:20:43 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/pregnancy-ambivalence-still-not-sureOff to College: A Guide for Championshttps://powertodecide.org/news/college-guide-for-champions
Sending your young person off to college can be an exciting moment for the both of you, whether your student is a new or a returning one. However, the separation might bring you—the parent or mentor—a little anxiety about challenges your young person might face and how you can help them transition into this new phase of their life apart from you: adulthood. It’s completely normal not to have all the answers! As you send your young one back to school, here are some things you can do as a parent, guardian, or trusted adult to ease both you and your student into college life.
Establish Boundaries and Expectations Early
College can be another word for “freedom” for many young people, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. You’ve spent their whole lives preparing them for this moment, right? But there are limitations to any kind of freedom, and you and your young person should definitely have a conversation about the boundaries and expectations you have for each other while they are at school. Some things you can discuss: How frequently would they like to keep in contact with you? What are your expectations about studying habits, grades, or communication about school work? Don’t put this conversation off for later; getting it all out in the open early will set you both on the right footing to begin the school year.
Help Them Create a New Trusted Community
Even if your young person is not leaving their state, city, or even the house to attend college, it’s still going to be a new environment for them. A college campus can feel worlds away from what they are used to. Encourage them to make new friends at their own pace, and continue to show interest in their life outside of school work.
It is also wise to enlist the help of other on-campus officials and advisors to make their college life a successful one. Make sure they have easy access to these phone numbers:
The campus health center office
The campus mental health counselor
The academic advising office
College students need as much support—off and on-campus—as they can get. Tapping into the many resources at their school will help provide them with an immediate safety net in your absence.
Let's Talk About Sex
We know it’s not always easy to have difficult conversations with your young person, but this one is especially important. Hopefully, as a trusted voice in their lives, you’ve been able to talk about healthy sexual behavior and how they can protect themselves when and if they decide to become sexually active. You will want to revisit “The Talk” again before they go back to school. Remind them of the importance of consent for each and every sexual interaction.
If your young person doesn’t yet have a preferred method of birth control, you can go over their options with them or recommend they speak to their health provider to answer any questions they may have. Have them download the Bedsider reminder app for entertaining and helpful reminders that will keep them on track with taking their birth control during those jam-packed college days.
Of course, all methods of birth control do not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Encourage your young person to use dual protection (a condom to prevent STIs and another form of birth control for extra pregnancy prevention) and get tested frequently. Your willingness to help them take responsibility for their sex life is an important part of sending them to college with the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant.
And Don’t Forget Drinking, Drugs, and Partying
Be sure to include a discussion about drinking alcohol (and why they should wait until they are of legal age to do it), illicit drugs, and partying.
Parties are a normal and fun part of college life, but they can also present opportunities for students to put themselves or others in danger. Remind your young person to practice safe behavior at parties. This can include:
watching the “bartender” pour their drink
never letting their drink out of their sight
being mindful of their level of alcohol tolerance (i.e. don’t overdo it)
never drinking and driving under the influence or even while buzzed (call an Uber, Lyft, or a cab)
never taking an unknown substance from strangers—or even friends
remembering the “buddy system” and looking out for the friends who came with them
keeping their phone charged in case of emergencies
Keep the Communication Lines—and Your Arms—Open
After you’ve packed and unpacked the car, and set up their dorm room, it’s time to let your college student spread their wings. You have prepared them to do their best. But what happens if college throws them unexpected curveballs? What happens if they feel overwhelmed and reluctant to disappoint you with their bad grades, bad news, or bad days?
Remember that college can introduce many different kinds of stressors into your student’s life, and they will still need your support, even if they have trouble asking for it. Keep an eye out for signs of depression or anxiety. If they begin to fall out of contact with you, respect the boundaries they have set but let them know you are available to talk whenever they’re ready.
College forces many young people to try to balance both their family’s expectations and their own hopes and dreams for their lives. Keeping your arms open to them even if they fail to fulfill some of your educational expectations might be challenging, but they will appreciate it.
Celebrate Good Times, C'mon!
Finally, remember to celebrate—this milestone is a great achievement for you both! With help from you as their parent, guardian, or trusted champion, your young person will have a valuable resource and support network to foster their success as a college student and an adult. Wed, 25 Jul 2018 16:06:11 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/college-guide-for-championsHow to Buy Condoms: Part 2https://powertodecide.org/news/how-buy-condoms-part-2
Buying condoms can be an intimidating process. But like many things, it’s probably a lot scarier in your head then it is in real life. Need a little help? Worry not, here’s your condom buying manual:
When’s the best time to buy? The best time to buy condoms is well before you actually need to use one. That way if a store closes earlier than you thought or you get some last minute jitters, you still have time for a re-do. If you're worried about running into someone you know, aim to hit up the pharmacy early in the morning (before school) or later at night (on your way home) when it's not a likely time that other people will be doing errands.
Will I get carded? You have to be 18 to buy tobacco products or pornography. You DO NOT have to be 18 to buy condoms. You should not get carded for buying condoms and a clerk cannot legally refuse to sell them to you without looking at your ID. A checkout person also shouldn't ask your age—and if they do, you don’t have to answer. Or, you could say: "You don't have to be 18 to buy condoms and I’m not obligated to share my age with you." You can also just leave and go to a different pharmacy, gas station, or come back when someone else is working.
What if the condoms are behind the counter? Some stores do keep condoms behind the counter. If this is the case, have an advance plan for what brand and type of condom you want. That way, you avoid this awkward convo:
You: "Can I have a pack of condoms?"
Check out person: "What brand?"
You: "Trojan."
Check out person: "Her pleasure? Ultra ribbed? Magnum? Extended Pleasure? Oh, and do you want a 3-pack or are you going for econo-size?”
You: “Ummmm……..”
What if you’re embarrassed? You may feel embarrassed walking up to a counter and buying condoms. But chances are, the cashier DOES NOT CARE! Seriously, they’re likely so preoccupied with getting off work (or whatever else is going on in their lives) that they barely even notice—or care—what you’re buying. Besides, this isn’t their first rodeo—they’ve probably sold hundreds of boxes of condoms before selling to you. And, if this pep talk didn’t help you, just go to a place that has a self-check out and then you don’t have to deal with it.
What if you see someone you know? There is a chance (even if it’s a small one) that you’ll run into someone you know when you’re buying condoms. If you truly think this is a likely possibility, then you might want to drive to the next town over and do your shopping there. Another thing you can do is get a basket and put a big bag of candy in it so you can hide the condoms underneath. That way, if you do run into someone they won’t see what you’re buying, and you can wait to check out until the person you know leaves. You can also buy condoms online (if you have a credit card).
What kind should you buy? There are a gazillion different types of condoms currently on the market. Everyone has their favorite type, but in truth, they aren’t really all that different. If you’re not sure what kind to buy you can always look up reviews online. Be warned though, some condoms come with lubricants that produce different sensations—so unless you’re up for that kind of adventure, you may want to steer clear of any with exotic names. Also keep in mind whether you’re buying latex, nitrile, or some other material; some men and women have latex allergies and will need to steer clear of this very common material.
If money is tight, check out CondomFinder.org. Just type in your zip code and see locations nearby that offer free condoms.
Good luck out there! And good for you for taking the initiative to protect both yourself and your partner. Sex is so much better when the threat of an unplanned pregnancy or an STI isn’t nagging in the back of your head.
Want to know more? Check out How to Buy Condoms: Part 1 here!
Originally published on stayteen.org on June 30, 2015.Sat, 30 Jun 2018 12:35:55 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/how-buy-condoms-part-26 Pop Musicians Making Waves in The LGBTQ+ Arenahttps://powertodecide.org/news/6-pop-musicians-making-waves-lgbtq-arena
During Pride month, celebrations of LGBTQ+ rights, culture, and communities can be seen across the country through parades, marches, and concerts to advocate for LGBTQ+ equality. The riots that took place on June 28, 1969, at The Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City, between the LGBTQ+ community and police are often cited as launching the gay liberation movement.
Many musicians and allies have taken to their music as a platform to raise awareness for LGBTQ+ equality. Having out LGBTQ+ musicians at the top of the charts not only helps celebrate the communities they represent, it also provides a forum for fighting stereotypes.
This Pride Month, we’re celebrating by featuring six rising pop stars who are creating future LGBTQ+ history right before our eyes.
Miley Cyrus
For many years Miley Cyrus has been a champion for the LGBTQ+ community. In 2014, Miley created the Happy Hippie Foundation, a nonprofit organization that rallies young people to fight injustice facing LGBTQ+ youth, homeless youth, and other vulnerable communities. Miley uses the organization as a platform to help LGBTQ+ youth be understood by their parents, family, and peers. In 2015, Miley came out as pansexual showing that gender and sexuality are not a factor in her love life. From bringing a group of drag queens on stage at the VMAs to showcasing members of the transgender community on Instagram during Pride, Miley Cyrus is one of the most vocal advocates for the LGBTQ+ community.
In 2017 Miley released a single titled "Inspired" in support of 2017 Pride, have a listen.
Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean became one of the first mainstream hip-hop and R&B artist to openly identify as gay. Yet, Ocean is not a fan of labels. In a 2012 interview with GQ, Ocean stated, “I'm giving you what I feel like you can feel. The other sh**, you can't feel. You can't feel a box. You can't feel a label. Don't get caught up in that sh**." In his 2012 debut album, Channel Orange, Ocean confessed his love for another man stating that “It was my first love, it changed my life,” in an open letter to his Tumblr. Channel Orange sparked conversation about homophobia in the rap and R&B community as Ocean spiraled up the charts. Ocean’s latest album, Blond, released in 2016 is a demonstration of Ocean’s unique and bold artistry promoting LGBTQ+ visibility in the music industry.
One of Ocean’s notable singles shaking up gender norms and featuring queer themes throughout the track is "Chanel," featured on the Blond album.
Janelle Monae
In an April interview with Rolling Stone, Janelle Monae came out as pansexual. Although she avoided the topic for some time, clues about her sexuality could be seen throughout her music. Tracks like “Mushrooms & Roses” and “Q.U.E.E.N.” speak about a woman love interest. On April 28, 2018, Monae dropped her new album Dirty Computer filled with sexual liberation overtones. In the Rolling Stone interview, Monae expressed that she wants “young girls, young boys, non-binary, gay, straight, queer people who are having a hard time dealing with their sexuality, dealing with feelings, ostracized or bullied for just being their unique selves, to know that I see you.”
Through her art, Monae is giving a voice to the voiceless and fighting for love. Monae admits that her album is not just a confessional album, it’s an album that comes from a more open place in her heart so she can touch the hearts and minds of many.
Check out her latest single "PYNK" off her new album:
Troye Sivan
Many artists struggle with coming out; fearing it may interfere with their chances of having a successful career. That's not the case with Troye Sivan. Sivan came out long before his label signed him. In a 2017 interview with TeenVogue, Sivan stated: “I feel like I lucked out that I was born at the right time, that now the world is ready for an openly gay male pop singer.” In the dominant heteronormative music industry, Sivan finds it important to use his music as a platform for others to relate to and find themselves. His music has explicitly queer overtones and has become an unapologetic anthem to the LGBTQ+ community.
As a young 23-year-old and only coming into the spotlight in 2015, Sivan in two years has made significant waves—giving a voice to those in the LGBTQ+ music space. His new album, Bloom, is progressive and set to make waves redefining the status quo in 2018.
Though the album doesn’t officially drop until August 31, you can treat yourself with this released single from Bloom titled "My, My, My!"
Hayley Kiyoko
Hayley Kiyoko is no stranger to the spotlight, from appearing on Disney Channel to The Fosters to an all-female pop group called The Stunners (with singer/songwriter Tinashe). Yet, she struggled to come out due to fear of facing judgment. It wasn’t until 2015 when she embraced her sexuality and produced music that reflected who she truly is. “Girls like Girls,” and “Pretty Girl” are tracks that allowed Kiyoko to open up about her sexuality for the first time. Her track “One Bad Night,” explores themes of trans-violence and the human connection. She produces her music in hopes that it inspires other youth to be more comfortable with their sexuality at a younger age and for them to feel confident in their own skin. In a personal letter to her fans, Hayley said;
“I think that's why my fans and I relate to each other. My music reassures them that they aren't alone—that their feelings are valid, that they are enough and they will find someone to love them back. I didn't have that hope growing up, so I get emotional and inspired (or encouraged) every time I meet a fan who looks at me that way.”
On March 30, 2018, she released her lasted studio album titled Expectations, bringing a new but vital twist to pop music.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6V2ikO_CDYWrabel
While Wrabel might not be a common household name, in 2017 he made waves in the LGBTQ+ community with the release of the track and music video called “The Village,” in response to Donald Trump’s proposal to ban transgender troops from military service. The music video follows a transgender teen struggling to find acceptance in this world and highlights many struggles transgender teens deal with daily. Growing up in a church in Los Angeles, Wrabel struggled with coming out as gay. He finally decided to come out and embrace his sexuality at the age of 23. Through his music, he hopes to make others feel that they are not alone and for others to feel confident in their own skin. In a Billboard Love Letter to the LGBTQ+ Community, Wrabel says;
“I stand with you and sit with you and see you and hear you and I CELEBRATE you. I validate every single part of you. as uniquely yours and I THANK YOU. for giving me a voice. and for sharing in my story. I thank you for making me feel like I'm not alone.”
Jacqueline Pelella, Communications FellowThu, 28 Jun 2018 14:31:34 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/6-pop-musicians-making-waves-lgbtq-arena#DoingItMyWay: National HIV Testing Dayhttps://powertodecide.org/news/doingitmyway-national-hiv-testing-day
June 27th marks National HIV Testing Day. Despite declining teen birth rates and reports that teens are having less sex, STD rates are on an unprecedented rise. The stigma often associated with HIV and STD testing is a leading factor in youths’ decision to forgo testing, despite having unprotected sexual experiences. Here at Power to Decide, we know that #TalkingIsPower. It’s imperative that trusted adults and champions jumpstart meaningful conversations about sex, love, relationships, and healthy practices—like frequent HIV/STD testing and dual protection.
During a routine check-up or gynecological visit, health care providers may or may not suggest HIV and STD screenings. It’s important that our young people feel empowered to ask for HIV and STD screening during their annual check-ups—or more frequently if necessary. Healthcare providers are also encouraged to incorporate sexual wellness as a facet of holistic wellbeing. Many clinics offer screenings available on a sliding-fee scale or free of cost, eliminating cost barriers. Our Bedsider Clinic Finder is just one of many online resources available to help young men and women to find a health care provider.
Whether it’s their first time being tested or hundredth, the anxiety of waiting for results can take a toll on anyone. The good thing about HIV screening is that most clinics and providers offer rapid testing, meaning you receive your results in 30 minutes or less. It’s completely normal to be nervous, but knowing your status gives you the power to decide your future and live your healthiest life. Despite dated misconceptions, positive HIV and STD results aren’t the end of the world! A large portion of young adults and adults are living with an STD. The good news is you’re not alone and many of these conditions are 100% treatable. HIV is completely manageable with proper treatment and people living with HIV can live long healthy, and productive lives. By using protection and getting regularly tested you can fight the stigma and build a more inclusive environment for yourself and your peers.
Test results can bring on a variety of unexpected emotions—and that’s okay. Most clinics and health care providers are equipped to help you deal with your test results and to refer you to outside counseling when necessary. Getting tested with your partner can be an experience that builds trust and compassion. This National HIV Testing Day, give yourself the power to chase your dreams and pursue your best life—get tested, know your status, and encourage those you love most to do the same. Wed, 27 Jun 2018 13:27:37 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/doingitmyway-national-hiv-testing-dayDads, This Father's Day Start Talking! https://powertodecide.org/news/dads-fathers-day-start-talking
My dad is a master of interrogation techniques. Almost every conversation we have is the Spanish Inquisition or the 3rd degree. He is relentless, wanting details on every aspect of my life and my friends’ lives. A typical line of questioning might look like this: Did you eat lunch today? What did you have for lunch? How did you get to work? Where do you get lunch when you’re at work? Who did you eat lunch with? What do her parents do?
That last one is his all-time favorite question. And "I don't know" is not an acceptable answer.
The questioning might be incessant, but it’s also harmless. After years of this, I’ve realized my dad is just curious. Even when I still lived under his roof, I don't recall feeling judged or being punished based on the information he’s learned from me. Knowing that I can count on him to reserve judgement has opened the door to valuable conversations and advice.I’ve dished about my last breakup, and subsequent makeup, and countless other relationship troubles. We've talked about gender identity, long-distance relationships, and #MeToo. Not too long ago, he got me to explain to him how to set up a date on Tinder.
I try not to think about why he wanted to know.
Among my female friends, the thought of talking to their dads about sex or relationships, even in the abstract, would probably seem weird and maybe even gross. That’s a fair call. I didn't always see the benefit of being interrogated with every phone call. As a teen, like many teens,I wanted to be left alone, and I found the interrogations annoying. At that age, I didn’t want to discuss anything with my dad, let alone sex, love, or relationships.
Lately though, I've come to realize that my dad doesn't pepper me with questions to annoy me or judge me. He really is just curious—and perhaps a little lacking in the swag department. Knowing that my dad is so interested in the smallest details of my life helps remind me that he’s always there.
Since it's Father's Day, I want to plug the interrogation approach to all the dads out there. Talking is power—and don’t worry, you don’t have to talk about Tinder (in fact, I would not recommend this.) If you need a place to start, you can always fall back on “what do her parents do?” Fri, 15 Jun 2018 14:03:24 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/dads-fathers-day-start-talkingPower to Decide CEO Participates in Hill Briefing Sponsored by the Care Women Deserve Campaign https://powertodecide.org/news/power-decide-ceo-participates-hill-briefing-sponsored-care-women-deserve-campaign
Access to preventive medical services was and is a fundamental tenet of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Care Women Deserve campaign seeks to remind women nationwide that important medical services remain available and are important for ensuring women’s health at every stage in their lives.
In an effort to bring critical awareness to these exiting preventive medical services, Ginny Ehrlich, CEO, Power to Decide, recently participated in a panel hill briefing sponsored by the Care Women Deserve campaign. Specifically, Ehrlich spoke about the benefits to women from having no-copay contraception; the benefits of birth control for women to live their best lives, and explained the organization’s online birth control support network Bedsider. For the complete speech text, please go here.
The primary purpose of the campaign is to highlight the requirement that insurance plans are required to provide coverage for preventive medical services, such as but not limited to well-women visits, breast cancer screenings, contraception, counseling, and follow-up care without a copay, coinsurance, or deductible. Additional services still covered by the ACA, include counseling for sexually transmitted infections, screenings for cervical cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and breast cancer. For most new mothers, breastfeeding services and supplies are also available at no additional cost.Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:11:28 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/power-decide-ceo-participates-hill-briefing-sponsored-care-women-deserve-campaignEveryone Loves Birth Controlhttps://powertodecide.org/news/everyone-loves-birth-control
How much do we love birth control? With all credit (or apologies) to the poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Power to Decide is here to help you count the ways. Everyone Loves Birth Control(updated in May 2018) is a handy resource that puts at your fingertips the latest public opinion research showing that birth control is widely supported and used. It also compiles key research behind the many benefits of birth control and what it makes possible - for women, families, and society.
Here are a few nuggets:
Birth control is popular -- 85% of all adults (including 7 in 10 Republicans and 9 in 10 Democrats) agree that birth control is a basic part of women’s health care, and 87% of adults agree that everyone deserves access to the full range of birth control methods, no matter who they are, where they live, or what their economic status is.
Birth control is not controversial -- it consistently tops the list of issues that Gallup tests for moral acceptability.
Birth control improves maternal and infant health -- women who have an unplanned pregnancy are twice as likely to lack prenatal care as those with a planned pregnancy.
Birth control improves educational attainment – 84% of adults agree that having the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant contributes to educational and economic opportunity for teens and women.
Birth control makes good business sense – 65% of black female and 64% of Latina small business owners say access to birth control and the freedom to decide if and when to have children has impacted their business bottom line.
Birth control saves tax dollars – contraception is cited as a key factor in recent declines in teen pregnancy, and recent analysis finds that the 64% decline in the teen birth rate between 1991 and 2015 has resulted in $4.4 billion in public savings each year.
Despite its clear support and benefits, information about and access to birth control remain uneven and tenuous. We invite you to check out Everyone Loves Birth Control to count even more ways that birth control is popular and beneficial, and to use this information to make sure everyone has the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. Fri, 01 Jun 2018 15:18:05 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/everyone-loves-birth-controlAsian Americans and Sexual Health: What Role Do Health Care Providers Play?https://powertodecide.org/news/asian-americans-and-sexual-health-what-role-do-health-care-providers-play
In light of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which just passed, we wanted to take a closer look at the research on Asian adolescents and sexual health. Although Asian Americans are the fastest growing minority group in the United States (U.S. Census 2010), they are often overlooked by researchers when it comes to examining issues related to sex, STIs, and pregnancy prevention. This is often attributed to the “model minority” stereotype that depicts Asian Americans as universally intelligent, successful, and experiencing overall upward mobility. Although research has demonstrated the harmful impacts of such stereotypes, health care providers still perceive Asian Americans to be at a lower risk for unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
To better understand the ways in which such stereotypes impact Asian American adolescent’s communication with their health care providers, researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 20 young Asian Americans between the ages 14 and 18. Speaking about a broad range of topics, including sex, contraception, STIs, and pregnancy, the researchers focused on potential barriers that health providers faced when communicating with adolescents about sexual health.
Who do Asian American Adolescents Talk to About Sexual Health?
Although half of all respondents interviewed reported being sexually active, few had spoken with their health care provider about sex, contraception, and STIs in the past two years and none had discussed pregnancy prevention with their primary physician. When it came to talking about sexual health, adolescents reported that teachers and friends were who they turned to first for information about sexual health. In contrast, parents and health care providers we’re the last source they reported they would consult. Unlike their non-Asian peers, adolescents interviewed noted that they rarely had conversations about sex with their parents, often due to cultural stigmas around sexuality.
How to Overcome Barriers to Foster Communication
To help foster open dialogue, the researchers suggest that health care providers should explicitly acknowledge confidentiality during all appointments with adolescents. Previous research has shown that when physicians explicitly discussed confidentiality prior to initiating conversations about sexual health, teens were more receptive and had a greater likelihood of having an honest discussion about sexual health. This research recommends that health care providers initiate conversations with both sexually active and non-sexually active teens during regular checkups to develop long-standing and trustworthy relationships.
In addition to confidentiality, Asian American teens reported wanting their doctor to provide them with accurate sexual health information given that they reported a general lack of knowledge related to contraception and STIs compared to their non-Asian peers. Asian American teens reported that they did not learn about topics related to sexual health in school, and again, rarely had discussions with their parents. Asian American adolescents reported they were receptive to abstinence but wanted to know how to prevent pregnancy if they were to become sexually active.
Why Communication is Key
Given the cultural taboos around sexual health among Asian Americans, health care professionals play a significant role in cultivating open communication around issues related to sex, contraception, and STIs for adolescents. Because Asian American adolescents are less likely to have conversations about sexual health with their parents, providers can play a crucial role in confronting harmful stereotypes that depict Asian American adolescents as not sexually active by initiating the conversation around sexual health.
Here at Power to Decide, we know that starting the conversation about sexual health is important and believe that physicians are just one of the many champions that young people can turn to when it comes to discussing issues related to sex, love, and relationships. To find out more on how you can start the conversation, check out the resources we have collected for #TalkingisPower Month.Fri, 01 Jun 2018 11:47:50 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/asian-americans-and-sexual-health-what-role-do-health-care-providers-play5 Resources to Help You Start Meaningful Conversations This PRIDE Monthhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-resources-help-you-start-meaningful-conversations-pride-month
It’s PRIDE month and we’re encouraging parents, mentors, and trusted adults everywhere to talk with the young people in their lives about being healthy, staying safe, and feeling great about who they are. Research shows that sex education programs are failing LGBTQ youth. Misleading negative information fails to prepare LGBTQ youth on how to stay healthy—both mentally and physically. Additionally, these youths are also at an increased risk of experiencing things like bullying and abuse.
The combination of stigma-induced stress, bullying and abuse, and the lack of LGBTQ-inclusive sex education has led to worse sexual health outcomes than straight or cisgender youth. LGBTQ teens are less likely to report using condoms or birth control and young women who identify as bisexual or lesbian are more likely than their straight peers to experience an unintended pregnancy. LGBTQ youth often list a limited number of adults they trust to talk about their sexual health with. When parents, mentors, and allies start conversations with LGBTQ youth and show their support and interest, it’s particularly powerful. LGBTQ youth who have a support system are less likely to attempt suicide, be depressed, use illegal drugs, or have unprotected sex.
It’s never too early to jumpstart important conversations about safe sex, healthy relationships, and self-esteem with the LBGTQ youth you care about most. The young people in your life deserve access to the health care and resources they need to live out the futures they envision for themselves. Check out these top five resources, and start talking today:
5 Resources for PRIDE Month
1. Four Must-Have Conversations
We know that talking is power. This spring, don’t skip the conversations that matter the most. Here are four conversations every parent, mentor, and trusted adult should be having with young people in their lives.
2. Bisexual or Questioning? Don’t Skip the Birth Control
Bisexual youth are twice as likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy. You can change the narrative for young people. Check out this article and be sure to talk with your teen about birth control and their options.
3. Logic–1-800-273-8255 ft. Alessia Cara, Khalid
Short on time but keen on supporting the LGBTQ youth in your life? Here’s a tune that’s challenging parents, mentors, and youth worldwide to think about the impact of bullying and homophobia. You may want to grab a Kleenex.
4. Sex, Gender, and Orientation
This awesome article, from a healthcare provider’s perspective, breaks down the differences between a few terms that are often easily conflated: sex, gender, and orientation. Understanding sexual identities and how individuals identify doesn’t only make you a well-informed champion but also an empathetic ally.
5. STI Myths That Get in The Way of a Healthy Sex Life
STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are a concern for all people engaging intimately with a partner. Don’t assume that your young person has learned what they need to know at school—a recent case study shows that more times than not, that’s not the case. In this article, we debunk common STI myths. Check it out and be sure to talk to your young person about getting tested.
Remember, your voice is more powerful than you think. This PRIDE month and every month, know that your young person is listening. Start talking today!
Fri, 01 Jun 2018 11:20:04 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/5-resources-help-you-start-meaningful-conversations-pride-month9 Asian & Pacific Islanders You Need to Knowhttps://powertodecide.org/news/9-asian-pacific-islanders-you-need-know
May is Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month—a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
According to the Asian-Pacific Resource and Research Centre for Women (ARROW), women from underdeveloped countries have less access to contraception; hence, less control over fertility. In fact, ARROW reports unintended pregnancies among young women in the Asian-pacific region are high—almost 1 in 10 girls become pregnant by age 16 in South and Southeast Asia.
For this year's Asian and Pacific American Heritage Month, we compiled a list of quotes from a few rock star advocates—including policymakers—who we're applauding for being strong champions for women having the power to decide their futures.
1. Tina Tchen
Tina Tchen is a co-chair of the United State of Women, a summit convened by the White House focused on gender equality in the United States. Previously, she served as an Assistant to President Obama, Executive Director of the White House Council on Women and Girls, and Chief of Staff to First Lady Michelle Obama.
“Women lose the ability to control their own futures if they cannot decide when and whether to become parents, making reproductive health access key to having economic mobility. We’ll never be able to move our nation forward if we legislate by leaving women behind.”
2. Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani who changed the face of girls’ education advocacy—becoming the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban. Now a student at Oxford University studying philosophy, politics, and economics, she continues to advocate for the importance of education.
“I was a girl in a land where rifles are fired in celebration of a son, while daughters are hidden away behind a curtain, their role in life simply to prepare food and give birth to children.”
3. Priyanka Chopra
Priyanka Chopra is a star who prides herself on being a feminist. Aside from chasing down bad guys in ABC's “Quantico,” she promotes various causes such as environmental sustainment, health and education, and women's rights. Commenting on how we live in a male-dominated society, she said:
“I think women have been treated like second-class people, no matter where in the world we go. I think we have reached a point where certain women are standing up for themselves and demanding to be taken seriously for their jobs, on merit. I think it is a great time for feminism, there are so many people standing up for women's rights.”
4. Freida Pinto
Freida Pinto gained popularity from her female lead in the 2008 British drama “Slumdog Millionaire.” She has since appeared in several American and British productions. It was stated in a New York Times article that she was inspired by Sushmita Sen's 1994 Miss Universe win to one day make her country (Mumbai, India) proud. She has done that by rising to stardom and using her platform to voice her stance on women’s issues:
“I call upon women to raise each other up, to make each other's welfare a priority and to never shame a woman for the choices she makes.”
5. Congressman Ami Bera
Congressman Ami Bera is a physician representing California’s 7th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. Bera is the longest serving Indian American currently in Congress and is the Vice Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee.
Bera has been a strong champion for women’s health at home and around the world. The first bill he introduced in Congress was the Women’s Preventive Health Awareness Act to help women navigate the health care system and ensure the care they need–like yearly doctor’s visits, birth control, and breastfeeding support–is covered without additional cost.
“A woman’s health care decisions should be between her and her doctor – not her boss or Washington politicians. As a doctor, I’ve fought to keep the government out of the exam room and ensure every woman has access to the care she needs. Birth control is health care. It enables women to live healthier lives and enhances their economic security.”
6. Representative Grace Meng
Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) is a champion of menstrual hygiene management policy, both domestically and abroad. She created the first comprehensive federal legislation (H.R. 972) to promote the health of women and girls by making menstrual hygiene products safer, more affordable, and more accessible for all women, including low-income, homeless and incarcerated women. This legislation has been used as a model for state and local policy around the country. Due to her efforts, homeless assistance providers can purchase menstrual hygiene products with federal grant funds, and federal female inmates can receive menstrual products free-of-charge.
In addition, her advocacy influenced policy in New York State, including the elimination of the sales tax on tampons and pads, and the availability of products in public schools. Rep. Meng is also working to improve the safety of menstrual hygiene products through the removal of harmful colorants and better ingredient labeling. Further, she has worked to ensure that disaster relief and international development interventions take into account menstrual hygiene management so that women and girls don’t lose out on access to educational and economic opportunities.
“Menstruation is a natural process and it is time to stop viewing it as taboo. The more we talk about it, the easier it will be to address real issues around menstruation such as safety of ingredients used in products, and accessibility of these products for low-income, homeless and incarcerated women.”
7. Mary "Magnificent Mary" Kom
Mary Kom is a five-time World Amateur Boxing Champion and the only Indian woman boxer to have qualified for the 2012 Summer Olympics. She also works to encourage awareness about feminine health needs by supporting The Taj Must Smile campaign. She highlighted the need to ensure good health for women and girls in the rural areas and urban slums of India in an earlier article on the occasion of International Day for Rural Women:
“We need to break this taboo and teach our daughters that it is okay to have periods and it should not weigh them down mentally or physically or hold them back from accomplishing their dreams.”
8. Padma Lakshmi
Model, author, actress, and “Top Chef” host, Padma Lakshmi, has long been an advocate for women. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Lakshmi noted that she has had a traumatic journey with endometriosis and therefore co-founded the Endometriosis Foundation of America which helps women get early diagnoses for the reproductive disease. Lakshmi also supports political campaigns such as the Center for Reproductive Rights which calls for fairer legislation around women's choices.
"I am worried that there will be a collection of Supreme Court justices who will take away my rights to choose what happens to my body.”
9. Representative Ted Lieu
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) has been a longtime champion of progressive values, including fighting for women’s health and reproductive rights. He co-sponsored bills to protect women’s ability to make healthcare decisions independently, to promote strategies to reduce gender-based violence globally and to ensure service members and dependents have access to contraceptives.
As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Lieu has been vehemently opposed to the global gag rule and blocking foreign aid for NGOs providing basic reproductive health services globally. As a member of the Congressional Foster Youth Caucus, Rep. Lieu has advocated for more resources for programs involving foster youth, who are disproportionately impacted by unplanned pregnancy. In addition to facilitating Foster Youth educational opportunities, Rep. Lieu co-sponsored the Foster Youth Mentoring Act of 2017 to provide mentoring services for foster youth.
“Making sure that every woman has access to safe, quality healthcare, regardless of their circumstances, is critical. I have spent my career in public office working to protect equal access to reproductive health care for all Americans. Government investments in family planning programs that improve sex education and help prevent unplanned pregnancies are vital to our nation’s public health and the strength of our economy and workforce. I will continue to fight all efforts to limit reproductive rights both in the United States and abroad.”
Tue, 29 May 2018 13:51:55 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/9-asian-pacific-islanders-you-need-knowMay 2018 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2018-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we'll highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Vincent Guilamo-Ramos
NYU Director of The Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health Adolescent AIDS Program, Montefiore Medical Center
Q1: What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high-quality sexual health information or high-quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant?
A1: The work that I’ve done for roughly 20 years has been focused on supporting parents and encouraging them to have effective conversations with their children around reproductive health. When you look at things like timing, content, and the frequency with which parents should be talking about things like sex, love, and relationships—it gets tricky. Through my work, I’ve tried to create programs that translate into a number of settings. Families Talking Together is one of those programs. It has proven that when parents communicate, young people make better decisions about their health.
Most recently, we’ve really been focused on fathers and sons and the role that conversations around sex, love, and relationships play in delaying pregnancy and empowering young people to achieve the futures they envision.
Lastly, I work as a nurse practitioner specializing in adolescent health. I have the honor of providing primary care to adolescents at risk or living with HIV. In this role, I have the opportunity to remain “grounded” in what adolescents perceive as being their sexual and reproductive health needs.
Q2: How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
A2: I got started in this field by working with young people in the early ‘90s. I was working with adolescents at risk for HIV, STIs and unplanned pregnancies make decisions that would impact their lives, long-term. I realized young people were making decisions to have sex that were resulting in negative outcomes.
Also, at that time Latina girls were 50% more likely to become pregnant before the age of 20. There were very few organizations focused on these issues, who saw these issues as a public health concern. These teens were lacking guidance and champions to help influence their decisions and choices.
As a country, we’ve made a number of investments to improve the lives of young people, and in some ways, those investments have paid off. However, there are other areas where we’re still lacking. For example, young people of color are still being infected with STDs and STIs at a much higher rate than ever before.
This continues to be my driving force. I have to continue to work towards addressing these historical inequities.
Q3: What advice would you give to someone looking to effect change in the field that you currently work in?
A3: The advice that I would give to others is to focus on the science and evidence of what works for young people. There are a lot of opinions about young people having sex, but we need to remember that the majority of young people have sex later in their adolescence. We should also embrace and celebrate that parents and family members continue to be the largest influence in young people’s lives.
Don’t pick a side. The only side is the side of young people. We need to support all types of families and help them to help their young people. Whenever I encounter opposition, I try to stick to the common ground. Whether you agree that teens shouldn’t or should be having sex, we all agree that teens should have the power to live happy lives. So, I advise that we continue to create resources that work toward that.
Q4: Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
A4: I have two arguments for why young people should be a priority:
Young people make decisions during their adolescence that set the stage for their long-term health and well-being. Few people realize that 70% of premature adult deaths are a result of adolescent lifestyle choices and exposures. We fail to realize that decisions made during adolescent years impact young people in the long run.
If young people aren’t supported to be the most productive individuals and aren’t engaged at the highest level, we miss out on their potential. We miss out on them contributing to the overall well-being of our nation and economic well-being of our society.
Q5: Is there a highlight about your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
A5: There a number of highlights I’ve had the pleasure of sharing with Power to Decide. I’m a Board Member and a friend of the organization and have been for 15 years. I’ve had the opportunity to work with Power to Decide to build the amazing program, Families Talking Together, which continues to thrive.*Responses have been edited for clarity Thu, 24 May 2018 13:49:50 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/may-2018-power-playerThe Millennial’s Guide to Having “The Talk” With Young People: #TalkingIsPower 2018https://powertodecide.org/news/millennials-guide-having-talk-young-people-talkingispower-2018
We all know “The Talk” is an important—and sometimes awkward—conversation about sex, love, and relationships that often happens between parents and their children. But did you know “The Talk” is not limited to just parents and guardians; and that it's even better if it's not just a one-time deal? Continually talking with kids about these topics throughout their lives is the best approach. And any older champion, mentor, or advocate for young people can join and support parents in having these important discussions.
In fact, Millennials (adults ages 22–37) are in a unique position to have a positive influence on the young people in their lives. Sometimes it’s less intimidating for adolescents to speak to an older sibling, a trusted coach, or a favorite older cousin than their parent or guardian.
So, even if you don't have children of your own, you can still make a difference in a young person’s life. Don’t know where to start? We have some basic guidelines you can follow to spark meaningful conversations about sex, love, and relationships with the young people you care about most. Check them out:
1. Be yourself!
This may sound too easy but it’s a great golden rule. Remember the young person in your life trusts you because of who you are. When you approach them to talk about sex, you don’t have to put on your “adult voice” or your “cool voice.” You don’t have to adopt slang you think they might use. Just talk to them the way you normally would. It will help both of you to feel at ease.
2. Go with what you know!
If you are close enough to a young person to talk to them about sex, draw on your prior experiences with them. Use your knowledge of their interests to open the lines of communication. For example, if you know they watch a certain television program you’re familiar with, you can use a recent episode that involves sex, love, or relationships to ask them their feelings on that subject. Think about a recent event in popular culture they might know about as a conversation starter.
3. Get vulnerable!
You don't have to reveal anything you don't want to, but try talking about your teen years as a way to get them to open up and relate. You might share some mistakes you made when you were their age—and what you learned from them. You might talk about a great relationship you had and what made it so awesome. You don’t have to pretend as if you did everything right just a few short years ago. Young people sometimes fear adults have forgotten what it feels like to be a teenager. As a Millennial, you are likely closer in age to them than their parents are. This is an advantage! Remind your young person that you remember what it’s like to be in their shoes.
4. Be an active listener.
Young people are often afraid to open up to adults about sex, love, and relationships for fear of a lecture. Sometimes, if the situation they’re talking about isn’t serious, it’s okay to just let them vent. They might need a shoulder to lean on or a compassionate ear to listen. If they have something to tell you, try to listen carefully without interrupting. Take note of their body language. Hold on to key parts of their monologue for a possible discussion a little later. When they have finished talking, ask them if they want your advice or perspective on what they just told you. Your young person may ask for your input; they also might just need someone they trust to truly listen to them.
5. Make them laugh!
Seriously. Most adults approach “The Talk” as a very sobering event, which helps contribute to the utter awkwardness both adolescents and their champions feel about it. If you’ve ever been in a room full of teenagers who are learning about sex, you might hear them giggle out of embarrassment. While sex is nothing to be embarrassed about, laughter does help to disarm people. Don’t think you have to stay serious just because you’re talking about real life. Love and relationships provide so much material to chuckle at. Even a corny joke can help crack a smile and break the ice during an uncomfortable moment.
The most important thing to remember when you’re having “The Talk” with young people is that they really do want to hear what you have to say about sex, love, and relationships. (Even if they don’t seem like it.) They look up to you as a mature young adult who is perhaps not as “old” and out of touch as their parents. Use your special connection as a trusted Millennial mentor with care, whether you’re a close cousin, coach, counselor, or an older sibling. You can help ensure the young person in your life has enough support, knowledge, and power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. Tue, 22 May 2018 14:28:28 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/millennials-guide-having-talk-young-people-talkingispower-2018Consent At Every Age: #TalkingIsPower 2018https://powertodecide.org/news/talkingispower-consent-every-age
At long last, the #MeToo movement has opened up the national conversation on consent. Did you know that a healthy understanding of consent actually starts during childhood? Learning not to take another kid’s toy without asking, that hitting is not OK, and how to negotiate with another person—these are all fundamental skills that empower your young person’s ability to give or deny consent later in life. Preparing your child and other young people to communicate what they do and don’t like helps them build a foundation to understand and respect the consent of others and themselves. Wondering how soon should you begin? Right now! Talking to your young person both early and often is powerful and impactful. Here are a few examples of how teaching consent differs at every age:
Toddlerhood
As they grow into their independence, toddlers will begin to set boundaries for themselves around other people. Parents are the first line of defense in teaching young children about consent. For example, you may hear your child say, “No hug!” or “No kiss!” Forcing children to hug or kiss people against their wishes has the negative effect of showing them their consent does not matter.
While parents sometimes feel embarrassment over their toddler’s vocal refusal of affection, adults should respect children’s requests not to be embraced. That could mean stepping in and reiterating your child’s “No” to a pushy adult. It could also mean helping negotiate a compromise like a high five or fist pump. This respect also applies to parents—respecting your child when they aren’t in the mood for a hug will send the message that their body is their own.
Although toddlers have a growing appreciation for the power of the word “no”, they are still learning how to respect others. Explain to your child gently but firmly that they must not touch others when asked not to. It takes a lot of repetition! But it’s important for them to begin to learn that consent is a two-way street—others should respect them and they should respect others.
Young School-Age Children
As your child enters school age, they will meet many new people and have many new experiences without you there to supervise them. It’s a big step for both guardian and child. Preparation for this moment begins years in advance, of course, but your child may still encounter challenges neither of you expected.
Many parents know to warn their kids against inappropriate sexual touch. They should not touch anyone else’s “private parts,” and no one should touch theirs. Situations that make them uncomfortable in a threatening way must be told to a trusted adult immediately. But what about less alarming occasions where a young person might feel uncomfortable with a touch that seems non-threatening?
For example, if two children are playing on the playground and one begins to tickle the other under the arms, the child doing the tickling may not see anything “wrong” with it. Even if one child laughs, but says, “Stop tickling me!” children must learn to heed words like “stop,” and “no” from their classmates. Tell your child they have the right to ask other people to stop tickling, poking, or touching them in any unwanted way. Help them understand that saying, “I was just playing” does not excuse unwanted touch.
Middle School
The transitional time between preteen years and early adolescence can be full of changes for children. Young people undergo rapid development physically and emotionally during this stage and can sometimes feel awkward about themselves. They are also starting to experience greater curiosity about their classmates’ changing bodies. That curiosity, combined with peer pressure, can lead to inappropriate incidents within a school setting.
Middle schoolers across the country are familiar with informal social rituals such as “slap-a** Friday,” where students will run through the hallways pinching or slapping each other on the breast or butt or groping private parts. Your child should understand this is a form of sexual harassment and assault and is completely unacceptable. The pressure to laugh off slapping and groping as a harmless game could lead to young people inappropriately touching others as they get older. Treat it seriously, and your student will as well.
High School
By the time your young person reaches high school, hopefully, they’ll have a good grasp on consent because you’ll have kept the lines of communication open throughout their younger stages of life. But even seasoned adolescents have more to learn about consent. At this age, they may have a boyfriend or girlfriend. Don’t freak out! Regular contact with a romantic interest is a healthy, normal occurrence for teenagers. As parents, champions, and mentors, use the opportunity of your young person’s relationship to revisit some fundamentals on respecting boundaries.
For example, if two teens who are dating like to hang out a room alone, one or both teens might feel that in that situation they must automatically become physical. Be sure to tell the young people in your life that being alone with someone in no way gives consent to sex or other touching. Also, teens should understand they must not touch anyone without consent—even if that person is their boyfriend or girlfriend and even if they’ve been physical with that person before.
Each stage of childhood and young adulthood provides parents, champions, and mentors with diverse opportunities to teach young people about consent. The task may seem intimidating at first, but don’t worry! Making each lesson age-appropriate will help your child to understand at their age what is and isn’t inappropriate. Teaching consent at the sandbox will lay a foundation for consent prom and later in the workplace. Your young person will be grateful you took the time to teach them. Tue, 22 May 2018 11:14:33 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/talkingispower-consent-every-ageA Health Care Provider's Perspective: #TalkingIsPower 2018https://powertodecide.org/news/health-care-providers-perspective-talkingispower-2018
As someone who spends most of their day talking to adolescents about reproductive health, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of conversation about sex, love, and relationships. I often talk to my paitents about how to prevent, recognize and treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs). I talk to them about what is “normal” when it comes to periods ans body changes. And what makes a relationship “healthy”. I talk to them about hygiene and infections such as yeast and BV—which are not sexually transmitted but still bothersome. I also talk to them about the various options for preventing pregnancy, from condoms to IUDs and everything in between.
While it is important for teens and young adults to seek medical care and talk to their doctors about their reproductive health, it is equally—if not more— important for them to feel comfortable discussing these topics with family and mentors as well. The conversations I have with my adolescent patients are often enriched if there is a trusted adult in their lives either present at the visit or whom they have spoken to before coming in. I watch these adult champions provide moral support during Nexplanon placements, reflect on their own triumphs and struggles with unplanned pregnancy, STIs and birth control, and help the teens in their lives make difficult decisions about their reproductive health.
Similarly, I have had patients who did not feel they could discuss sex, love, and relationships with their parents or the other adults in their lives. I recently saw a 15-year-old patient who came in concerned she had an STI. When I asked her about her plans to prevent pregnancy, she stated she was planning to wait to start birth control until she was an adult, because she did not think her parents would agree with her starting birth control now. While teens in 21 states and DC can consent to and receive contraceptive services confidentially on their own, they are often more empowered to do so when they are discussing these topics with and are supported by a trusted adult.
Just as it is important for us to teach our children how to avoid injuries from fires, cross the street without being hurt, and safely drive a car, it is similarly important for us to discuss safe sexual practices with them. While this topic may be more uncomfortable than other safety topics, it can be similarly life-saving. The best way to help the young people in our lives grow into competent, healthy adults is to provide them with loving support and open, honest conversations about our struggles and lessons learned. See our resources for how to talk to the preteens, teens and young adults in your life, and start the conversation today, because #TalkingIsPower.
-Arin Swerlick is an Adolescent Medicine Fellow at Children’s National and a mother.Mon, 21 May 2018 12:41:41 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/health-care-providers-perspective-talkingispower-2018This Women’s Health Week – Care for Yourselfhttps://powertodecide.org/news/womens-health-week-care-for-yourself
Women lead busy lives. Running around taking care of everyone and everything else is a basic part of their day, and it doesn’t allow much free time to care for themselves. The challenge of meeting health care needs is often compounded for women from vulnerable populations who also live in areas that lack access to the tools and resources they need. While we know that contraception is a basic and fundamental part of women’s health care, access to contraception has become fragile, particularly for women who need it most.
I immigrated to the U.S. at age 19 and was fortunate that I had the agency and resources to obtain information regarding my healthcare needs. For my well-woman visits, I sought providers I was comfortable with and was proactive in gathering information regarding the full range of contraceptive methods. Later, when I balanced marriage and career, the ability to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to have a child afforded me the opportunity to achieve professional goals and live life on my own terms.
This remains an elusive goal for most minority women. According to recent data, African-American women have the highest unintended pregnancy rate—more than twice as high as non-Hispanic white women. In addition, women who make less money and have less education are more than five times as likely to have an unplanned pregnancy as women in the highest income level. To compound these already existing challenges, more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception lack reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. These locations are commonly referred to as contraceptive deserts.
Currently, there are more than 4 million low-income people who depend on the Title X program each year for their contraceptive care. The administration’s recent efforts will make it even harder for women with the greatest need to access quality contraception and sexual health information. In addition, the administration is encouraging states to block people covered by Medicaid from accessing high-quality family planning providers, including Planned Parenthood. Additional efforts include trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and to gut the contraceptive coverage provision. Further, the administration cut short all 84 grantees of the evidence-based Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program, which were on track to provide 1.2 million youth with high-quality, evidence-based sex education. All of these resources together play a critical role in ensuring women of all ages have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant.
This Women’s Health Week, we must be mindful of the critical role sexual health information and access to contraception play in helping all women – regardless of who they are or where they live – live life on their own terms. To ensure such access remains, we must push our policymakers to maintain funding for critical programs at their current levels and stop efforts that restrict women’s access to contraception. My life choices were made possible because I had access to a variety of critical services. All women – regardless of who they are or where they live – deserve the same opportunity.Mon, 14 May 2018 12:22:57 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/womens-health-week-care-for-yourself#TalkingIsPower: Families Talking Together is Powerfulhttps://powertodecide.org/news/talkingispower-families-talking-together-powerful
"What I hear most often from the parents is thank you so much for this class because I wanted to talk to my children about pregnancy and sex, but I just didn't know how to, so I didn't say anything—but now I feel empowered".
We know from polling and research that parents (yes, including you, dads) are the biggest source of influence for young people when it comes to their decisions about sex, love, and relationships. Still, even when parents and trusted adults understand this, it can be uncomfortable to broach these conversations.
Families Talking Together (FTT) is an evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention curriculum that was developed to address this issue, specifically among Latino and African-American youth. It is designed to promote effective communication skills, build parent-adolescent relationships, help parents develop successful monitoring strategies, and teach adolescents assertiveness and refusal skills.
FTT is one of the three evidence-based curricula being used by the North Texas Alliance to Reduce Teen Pregnancy (NTARUPT), to educate both parents and teens on the "how" and the "why" of not becoming a teen parent. The powerful quote above is feedback one NTRUPT educator received from families who have participated in the FTT curriculum. It's no surprise to learn that parents echo the sentiment that #TalkingisPower.
Check out NTARUPT and the impact this program is having on participants in this video.
Not every community is fortunate to have evidence-based programs like FTT to improve familial communication about sex and relationships around these subjects (and unfortunately the federal funding that NTRUPT receives from the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program is scheduled to end soon—as the program was recently upended by the Trump Administration—check back for Part II which will further explore this topic). This is just one of the many reasons we are asking champions like you to start early and talk often. But we aren't asking you to go it alone. Check out our videos with moms and dads, and our champion guide to help you jumpstart these meaningful conversations with the young people in your life. Wed, 09 May 2018 13:56:32 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/talkingispower-families-talking-together-powerfulWhy Sex Education Is Importanthttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-sex-education-important
When was the last time you used calculus? Unless you're an engineer or scientist I would be willing to bet it was that awful class in 12th grade. Imagine if your parents could have opted you out of that. What if they could have just signed a sheet of paper and excused you from that unit of math? Well, as terrible as calculus is, it's still important. Maybe you don’t use it every day, but it's useful at times and sex education is the same way. Even if you don’t plan to be sexually active, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t learn about sex, anatomy, contraceptives, and the other topics that make up sex education. Sex education is just as important as calculus, so why can we opt out of one but not the other? Knowledge is for everyone, and sex education shouldn’t be limited to certain people because of their parents' views. Access to comprehensive, medically accurate sex education is a human right.
Sex is a natural part of life, and it happens with or without sex education. 71% of American 19-year-olds have had intercourse. 99% of Americans will have sex in their lifetime. Only 20 states require sex and HIV education be taught in schools. Sex is a fundamental part of being human; but less than half of our states require sex and HIV education, and most of what is taught is sub-par. Just because we refuse to talk about sex doesn’t mean it's just going to go away.
There are 35 states that have laws that allow parents to opt their children out of sex ed. Even worse, 3 states make parents opt their children into sex ed. You can't opt your children in or out of math. But when it comes to sex education, one of the most important things you can learn in school, a parent can take their kid out for no reason at all. I am all for religious freedom, but just because you or your religion values abstinence doesn’t mean your kids will too. It's important teens get all the information they can, and then make a decision about their own values. Don't let religion or family values be a reason to let students be taken out of sexual health education. Don't let your morals obstruct your kid's learning.
Let's recall 12th grade math class just once more. Everything you learned was factual information. But what if that wasn’t the case? What if your teacher wasn’t obligated to teach accurate information? Sadly, this is the case for sex education in 37 states. Only 13 states require sex education information be medically accurate. We, one of the world's leading powers, only require 26% of states to teach children medically accurate information.
Sex education is important. It's been proven time and time again. We know students who receive formal sex education in schools are shown to first have sexual intercourse later than students who have not had sex education. Sex education does not encourage teenagers to have sex, it does quite the opposite.
Every teenager should have sex education incorporated into their schooling. It shouldn’t be opt-in or opt-out but mandatory. Why should parents be able to opt their children in or out of a subject that they'll need later in life, one way or another? Sex education should be mandatory, comprehensive, medically accurate, and taught throughout student's school years, just like math. It's been shown to help students, not hurt. Not only is having access to sex education that is not only comprehensive but medically accurate a human right; it's our fundamental duty as a society to educate the next generation. Currently, we are failing.
Originally published on stayteen.org on May 3, 2016.Thu, 03 May 2018 12:19:14 -0400MLeDuchttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-sex-education-importantIt's Time To Activate: #TalkingIsPower 2018https://powertodecide.org/news/talkingispower-six-ways-to-get-involved
As the nation marks National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month, we'll be kicking off our new initiative, #TalkingIsPower, a national effort to spark meaningful conversations between young people and the champions (trusted adults) who care about them on May 2, 2018.
Leading up to and throughout the month of May, we will provide champions and trusted adults with some of the tools and resources necessary to help ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant.
This May is all about reminding parents, champions, and mentors of how powerful they really are. Our young people are listening. Let us help you to be the hero they need. Check out our top six ways to get involved and champion for the young person you care about most!
6 Ways to Get Involved This #TalkingIsPower Month
1. Take the National Day Quiz and encourage the young people in your life to do so as well
Use our National Day Quiz discussion guide to start open and honest conversations about sex, love, and relationships.
2. Take the Pledge
Sign up for our #TalkingIsPower Thunderclap campaign. Signing up is super simple: log in with your Facebook, Twitter, or Tumblr account(s) and this message will automatically be shared with your followers on May 7th: “Talking Is Power! Join me and Power to Decide in pledging to be a champion for the young people in your life.”
Use May to talk with the young people in your life. Sex, love and relationships are complicated—we know! That’s why it’s so important that your people hear from you both early on and often. #TalkingIsPower month is the perfect opportunity for you to have an open and honest conversation with your young people about sex, birth control, dating, and what makes a healthy relationship.
It doesn't have to be an epic summit—just a quick chat to get the ball rolling. To make it even easier, we've created a number of resources to help you. Additionally, we’ll be rolling out even more videos, resources, and articles during the month of May, so be sure to check back frequently. Join us in pledging to jumpstart meaningful conversations today.
3. Social Share
We've created a number of shareable assets to make social sharing super easy for you. Be sure to follow our #TalkingIsPower media partner, Cosmopolitan, our Power to Decide social accounts, and Bedsider for even more tips on talking to your young people about sex, love, and relationships.
You can also share one (or all) of these messages on your social accounts throughout the month of May to encourage your followers to get on board with #TalkingIsPower month.
Think you're a sexpert? Take @StayTeen’s quiz and find out. StayTeen.org/Quiz. #TalkingIsPower
DYK: Young people actually prefer hearing about taboo topics like sex, love, and relationships from the adults they trust most? Learn more at https://bit.ly/2JWag8J #TalkingIsPower
Teen pregnancy is 100% preventable—especially when trusted adults and champions jumpstart meaningful conversations early on and often! Learn more here: https://bit.ly/2JWag8J #TalkingIsPower
Parents, trusted adults, mentors, champions: It’s never too late to start talking about sex, love, and relationships. Our young people are listening—start talking today! More here: https://bit.ly/2JWag8J #TalkingIsPower
4. Make a tax-deductible donation to show your support for #TalkingIsPower month
Your donation allows our organization to continue to ensure that all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant.
5. Talk to a Young Person
Whatever you do, talk to a young person! This #TalkingIsPower month, we’re counting on young adults, champions, and everyone in between to start talking. Conversations about sex, love, relationships and future goals are key to preparing young people for the futures they envision for themselves. Check out our 2018 Champion Guide for 6 tips to help guide you through a thoughtful and (hopefully) slightly less awkward conversation about sex with young people.
Mon, 23 Apr 2018 17:48:41 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/talkingispower-six-ways-to-get-involvedWhy Your Gift Matters: #TalkingIsPower 2018https://powertodecide.org/news/why-your-gift-matters-talkingispower-2018
When young people have a system of support as they go through life, it plays a large part in enabling them to thrive. Here at Power to Decide, that’s what we’re all about. We believe in giving young people the opportunity to pursue the future they want, realize their full possibility, and follow their intentions. We're intentional about helping to ensure that champions, mentors, parents, and trusted adults have the tools and resources they need to support the young people they care about most.
As the nation marks National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month this May, Power to Decide is launching our new initiative—#TalkingIsPower, a national effort to jumpstart meaningful conversation between young people and their champions. In large part due to the help of generous supporters and donors, we are able to produce resources that fulfill our vision of a nation where all young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant.
That’s why we’re asking you today to talk to someone about Power to Decide, and encourage them to become a mentor and advocate for young people. Ask them to talk to their grandkids, siblings, or friends about sex, love, and relationships. We're also asking you to make a donation to Power to Decide if you can, so we can continue our work of helping to build a network of support for all young people in the U.S. Be sure to tell your friends and networks if you make a gift—and encourage them to give, too. After all, there is strength in numbers.
We are so grateful for your voice, your support, and your efforts to help young people realize their full possibility. Together, we can make a difference.Mon, 23 Apr 2018 17:20:44 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/why-your-gift-matters-talkingispower-2018#FlipTheScript: The Pill and Infertility Challenges https://powertodecide.org/news/flipthescript-pill-and-infertility-challenges
I was 36 when I met my husband, and he was older. Almost immediately after meeting, we fell in love, were engaged and got married. Knowing we didn’t want to wait, and considering our respective ages, we started trying for a baby right away. After 6 months of taking my temperature, buying ovulation kits in bulk, and trying everything short of standing on my head after intercourse, we saw a doctor. Our journey to get pregnant had begun, and little did we know what lay ahead.
During this time, Google was not my friend. I couldn’t help but look up if any of the things I loved to do were somehow preventing my body from conceiving. Was it the running? Did I have mercury poisoning because of the seafood? Was it that I ate too much meat? And most importantly, could it have been the fact that I had been on the pill for almost 20 years? I started taking oral contraceptives at age 18, so how on earth could I reverse the possible damage?
We met with the first fertility specialist in 2012, and proceeded to undergo 5 failed IVF procedures. After almost a year with doctor number 1, he requested to meet to discuss our next steps. It was at this meeting that I heard the phrase that will forever more be cemented in my mind: “it’s time to wrap it up.” Apparently, we had exhausted all our options, there was nothing more he could do, and it was time to move on. I remember feeling numb, standing up, and walking out of his office in shock. We weren’t going to have a baby. My husband, however, was undeterred. Without missing a beat, he thanked the doctor, and got the nurse to make a copy of every single page in my file, even the post-it notes. After we both had a good cry, we collected ourselves and thought of next steps.
We decided that we needed a second opinion, and this time we were going to the best. For us that meant consulting with our brilliant brother-in-law, a well-respected physician in Ohio. We gave Fred our file and per his recommendation we met with fertility specialist number 2, who upon reviewing our file told us, “I think there is still a chance”. The protocol with doctor number 2 was considerably less aggressive and it worked—I was pregnant with our first daughter after the first couple of months. Within 6 months of her birth, we went back to doctor number 2, and started trying for another baby. She was born 15 months ago. Thankful and blessed don’t adequately begin to express how I feel every day.
The truth is that being on the pill didn’t impact in any way my ability to conceive. Rather—and science supports this—women over a certain age have more reproductive challenges. In addition, studies have found that women who quit the pill after using it for an average of seven years, 21% were pregnant in one month and 79% were pregnant in a year. Personally, being on the pill for close to two decades allowed me to have the life I wanted. For me, that has meant finishing school, and the opportunity to work in both state and federal branches of government, unions, and the non–profit sector. Because I had the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant, I lived life on my own terms.
Whether it’s conceiving or adoption, for some people building a family can be an emotional rollercoaster ride. I was ready to give up countless times and leaned on my loving husband’s strength, resolve, and faith when I had none left. I don’t have any advice other than to say, don’t give up trying to have a family. They came in all shapes and sizes and are worth every tear shed.
Learn more about National Infertility Awareness Week here. Mon, 23 Apr 2018 12:38:38 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/flipthescript-pill-and-infertility-challengesMomentos: Sparking Meaningful Conversations in the Latinx Communityhttps://powertodecide.org/news/momentos-sparking-meaningful-conversations-latinx-community
In life, there are some conversations that, regardless of training and experience, will always be difficult. Whether it's speaking with your boss about a raise or discussing a separation with your partner—these conversations are difficult, but often a necessary part of life. For a trusted adult with a teenager—particularly in the Hispanic community—conversations regarding sex and how to avoid unplanned pregnancies are awkward to say the least.
Here at Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy, we work on various initiatives at both national and local levels that help provide opportunities for all young people to pursue the future they want and to realize their full potential. Part of that work includes Innovation Next, a project aimed at discovering early innovation to help remove barriers so that young people can reach their full potential. Through Innovation Next, a team from Westat developed Momentos, a text-based tool that provides weekly text messages with practical advice and strategies for Spanish-speaking parents interested in communicating with their children about sexual health.
Like with many parents, research shows that in the U.S., Hispanic parents could stand to speak more often and more openly about sex and contraception with their teens. These studies also indicate that those teens are also more likely to turn to their parents to influence their decisions about sex. In Spanish speaking households, where these conversations are not part of the culture, tools like Momentos help to close the communication gap with a technology-based, parent-centered, and culturally appropriate tool that empowers parents to talk to their kids in an effective way about pregnancy prevention. Momentos is an important tool to help parents have difficult conversations by providing accurate information that can help change lives.
The Momentos program, which was launched as a pilot, included 590 participants, and enlisted the expertise of health educators and online influencers to provide information regarding sexual health and contraception. The initial results from the pilot program speak for themselves. From the 590 parents who participated, 91% reported using the content to initiate conversations; 63% reported feeling more confident talking about sex with their child; and 74% reported that they would continue participating in Momentos.
To further provide tools and opportunities to spark critical conversations, this May Power to Decide will be kicking off #TalkingIsPower Month, a national effort to spark meaningful conversations between young people and the trusted adults and champions in their lives regarding sex, love, and relationships. We believe that every young person— regardless of who they are or where they live—has the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. To that end, we will continue to work towards providing champions with effective tools to initiate difficult conversations. Fri, 13 Apr 2018 11:02:36 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/momentos-sparking-meaningful-conversations-latinx-communityGreater Than AIDS #NYHAAD18https://powertodecide.org/news/greater-than-aids-nyhaad18
April 10th marks National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day (#NYHAAD). Here at Power to Decide, we believe that all men, women, and young people deserve the power to pursue the futures they envision for themselves. Having the power to live your best life means not only having access to the most effective contraceptive method that works best for you—but also access to comprehensive knowledge about how to protect yourself both physically and mentally. National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day was specifically created to educate the public about the impact of HIV/AIDS on young people and to highlight the important work going on across the country in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Devin Shares His Personal Story
The CDC reports that in the United States alone, 1 in 5 new HIV diagnoses are in young people aged 13-24 years. Despite the number of new HIV infections among youth, only 10% of U.S. high school students have ever been tested for HIV. The stigma surrounding STIs and STDs persists, but knowing your status is the key to caring for yourself and living your best life.
Daniel Shares His Personal Story
This National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day, we asked two advocates to share their personal stories with us. Both Devin and Daniel are fearless champions for HIV/AIDS awareness and they both agree that talking is power! Awareness days like #NYHAAD are the perfect opportunity for champions, mentors, parents, and other trusted adults to talk with the young people in their lives about sex, love, relationships, and the importance of getting screened for STIs and STDs.
Daniel Reminds Us Why #TalkingIsPower
Today and every day, we challenge you to not only hear what champions like Devin and Daniel have to say, but also to jumpstart meaningful conversations with the young people you care about most!
Tue, 10 Apr 2018 23:14:31 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/greater-than-aids-nyhaad18When Barriers Hinder: A Provider's Perspectivehttps://powertodecide.org/news/when-barriers-hinder-providers-perspective
In order to ensure all women have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant, we need policies that improve women’s access to contraception. As a family physician, I enjoy helping my patients find a contraceptive method that works well for them. One of the greatest frustrations, however, comes when a patient has an unplanned pregnancy due to barriers that hinder her ability to start or continue a method I have prescribed.
Monthly calls and visits to the pharmacy to refill and pick up birth control can be significant impediments to some women using birth control in a correct and consistent manner. Women are less likely to experience a missed day when they have access to a full year’s supply of birth control. That is why a policy mandating insurance coverage for a year’s supply of contraception is gaining traction in some states. As of the beginning of 2018, 13 states (including the District of Columbia) have passed legislation that make it easier for women to pick up a 365 day supply of self-administered hormonal contraception such as the pill, patch, or ring.
These methods become 30 times less effective with “typical use” than they are with “perfect (consistent and correct) use.” This means with typical use of the pill/patch/ring 9 out of every 100 women will have an unplanned pregnancy, per year. Whereas with perfect use, less than 1 out of every 100 women will have an unplanned pregnancy, per year. This lower effectiveness comes from missed doses and gaps between monthly refills.
From a medical perspective, there is no reason why a patient should not be allowed to obtain a year supply of contraception at one time. There are important contraindications to contraception that a healthcare provider needs to evaluate with their patient before starting a method and a year’s supply may not be ideal for a patient starting a new method of birth control. However, once a woman is satisfied with her chosen method, she will likely only need to see her provider once a year for a check-up and refill. In the meantime, closer supervision for safe or correct contraception use is not necessary.
Currently, several state legislatures have proposed bills that would allow for extended prescriptions of hormonal contraceptives. States as diverse as New Hampshire and South Carolina, for example, have bipartisan bills that have already passed one branch of the legislature. We will continue to monitor the progress of these bills and hope that New Hampshire and South Carolina join the growing number of states making it easier for women to access the method that works best for them. Check to see whether your state has this policy, and if not, this is the time to start laying the groundwork with policymakers and partners to take action.
Arin Swerlick, MD is a Physician at Children's National
*This piece is of her own opinion and not that of Children's National HospitalTue, 10 Apr 2018 19:02:00 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/when-barriers-hinder-providers-perspectiveSTI vs. STD: Overcoming the Stigmahttps://powertodecide.org/news/sti-vs-std-overcoming-stigma
You may have noticed the recent shift in the way people reference HPV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. More than likely you've heard the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs) instead of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). While most of us are familiar with the term STDs, you may find yourself wondering why the sudden name change?
According to the American Sexual Health Association (ASHA), the name change came about to be more accurate and to address stigma. According to ASHA, “disease” suggests a medical problem associated with clear signs and symptoms. Given that several of the most common sexually transmitted viruses have little to no signs or symptoms, it is more accurate to refer to them as infections rather than diseases. Additionally, the use of STI instead of STD reflects the reality that not all sexually transmitted infections turn into a disease. For example, the majority of women who contract HPV will not develop cervical cancer, and in fact, the majority of HPV cases clear up on their own over time. While most individuals use the two terms interchangeably, there is a difference.
STIs are far more common than one would imagine. The Center for Disease Control estimates that there are nearly 20 million new infections every year in the U.S. alone, and half of them are among people age 15-24. Considering that a large majority of those who contract STIs won’t have symptoms, practicing safe sex and scheduling routine testing is key. Most young people, however, often forgo STI testing. This could be to lack of information about staying safe, lack of resources to get tested, or a broader issue—stigma.
Despite the overwhelming prevalence of STIs and STDs among young people, the stigma of contracting an infection or disease keeps people from being tested. It’s important to remember contracting an STI or STD is not the end of the world and your life, including your love life, will go on. If you or someone you know has been infected, know that health care providers are there to help you live your healthiest life, not to judge you. This STI Awareness month, we’re challenging everyone learn to their status by getting tested and to remind the young people in their lives to do the same.Thu, 05 Apr 2018 18:29:11 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/sti-vs-std-overcoming-stigmaProviding Low and No Cost Birth Control Helps Ensure Women Have the Power to Decide https://powertodecide.org/news/providing-low-and-no-cost-birth-control-helps-ensure-women-have-power-decide
A recent study from the University of Utah Health revealed what we already know—having to pay for contraception is a real barrier for some women. Specifically, according to the study, women are two and half times more likely to use more effective contraception when they don’t have to pay for it.
At Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy, we believe that all young people, regardless of who they are, where they live, or what their economic status is, should have the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant. To help young people make informed decisions, we provide objective and accurate information about sexual health and contraceptive options and we work to guarantee equitable access to and information about the full range of contraceptive methods.
Unfortunately, making access to contraception a reality for all women in this country remains a challenge. Today, women of color, young women living in poverty, and young women in rural areas are more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy. These disparities are due, in part, to the fact that more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts, counties in which there is not reasonable access to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.
In addition, recent actions by Health and Human Services give us pause when it comes to programs like the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program and the Title X family planning program. We know that these programs help to ensure that millions of young people have information about and access to contraception. We will continue our efforts to ensure that all young people will have quality sexual health information, access to no or low cost contraception and a strong network of safety-net clinics providing highest standard contraceptive care through the Title X and Medicaid. Ultimately, everyone benefits when young people have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant.
Ginny Ehrlich is CEO of Power to Decide Fri, 30 Mar 2018 17:31:17 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/providing-low-and-no-cost-birth-control-helps-ensure-women-have-power-decideNYMPOD 04: Get That Money, Honey! https://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-04-get-money-honey
In this month's Data Breakdown we learned that women—especially women of color—are more likely to make less than their male counterparts. Not to mention, millennial women are often ill-equipped to ask for a salary increase, pay adjustment, or to advocate for themselves and their value. Only 37% of millennials have ever asked for a pay increase, and more than 55% of millennial women are fearful of a negative outcome in doing so.
So, this month on the pod, De'Jonnae and Patia interview the founder of Adept Flow Coaching Firm, Marsha Prospere, on all things money and financial wellness. In a world where women make less than 80 cents to every dollar their male counterparts make, knowing how to finesse your money and career journey to best suit your best life is key. Listen up and find out how to get that money, honey!
Happy listening, friends!
Fri, 30 Mar 2018 15:58:46 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/nympod-04-get-money-honeyConnecting the Why and the How to Increase Opportunities for Youthhttps://powertodecide.org/news/connecting-why-and-how-increase-opportunities-for-youth
A new report from the US Partnership on Mobility from Poverty offers bold ideas to make progress on the proposition that all young people should have the chance to make plans for their future, to imagine the life they want for themselves and to act upon those aspirations in order to realize their potential. SPARKS for Young People’s Mobility out of Poverty: Supporting Intentional Family Formation and Positive Youth Development focuses on providing both the motivation and the means for young people to live their best lives.
This means ensuring young people have SPARKS (Supportive Pathways through Adolescence through Recreation, Knowledge, and Schools) that empower them to find their “why,” along with information about and access to the full range of birth control options. Access to these resources help empower young people to choose whether and when to become parents, which in turn makes it possible to achieve other goals. As the report puts it, “Together, these approaches can help ensure that young women and men have the autonomy to choose their own goals and the power to achieve them.”
We were honored to contribute to this paper and to help facilitate a design lab with experts, thought leaders, practitioners, and young people with lived experience that generated important insights and recommendations reflected in the report. Power to Decide is committed to ensuring that all young people—no matter who they are, where they live, or what their economic status might be—have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant.
As the new report underscores, access to high quality sexual health information and birth control alone can’t solve poverty, racism, economic inequity, or other social challenges that make it hard for all young people to create the future they want. But, especially when coupled with a sense of meaning (aka SPARKS), a connection to allies and champions, and real possibility, they can empower young people to make major life decisions that can affect their opportunities. That is why at Power to Decide we work on increasing information, access, and opportunity. In the words of the SPARKS authors, we need to focus on both the how and the why.
The new report is the latest in a series from The US Partnership on Mobility from Poverty, an effort funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and supported by the talented staff at the Urban Institute. The Partnership is generating ideas for investment by philanthropy and the public sector that answer the question: What Would It Take to Dramatically Increase Mobility from Poverty? The SPARKS report summarizes existing research, highlights examples of promising and effective programs, and recommends key steps for future research and investment. Acting on these recommendations will be an important step towards ensuring more young people have both the why and the how to achieve their goals and the futures they want. I encourage you to read and share it!
Mon, 26 Mar 2018 14:02:03 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/connecting-why-and-how-increase-opportunities-for-youthConsidering Their Futureshttps://powertodecide.org/news/considering-their-futures-save-tppp
Many of you might have seen the recent report from NBC News that said information obtained via the Freedom of Information Act exposed the decision by the current Administration to abruptly shorten all Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program grants was driven by appointed officials who ignored the advice of career government personnel. At Power to Decide, we are dismayed to learn the extent to which the decision to cut short more than 80 projects in 39 states and the Marshall Islands was arbitrary and based on ideology rather than evidence.
This decision was not only contrary to science and the best interests of young people; it is contrary to the opinions of the majority of American adults. In fact, more than 85% of Americans favor continuing evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention programs, including TPP, with strong support across political party and geographic lines. In addition, under the leadership of the Office of Adolescent Health (OAH), the TPP Program has been highlighted by bi-partisan experts on evidence as a shining example of an evidence-based program that is building knowledge both about individual interventions and about managing a high quality evidence-based program.
Stripping funding from these high quality projects will affect hundreds of thousands of vulnerable youth and stop important research in its tracks. We have seen a 41% decline in teen childbearing since 2010, and though this decline cannot be solely attributed to any single program or strategy, the fact is that progress has accelerated dramatically since federal investments in evidence-based teen pregnancy prevention education began.
The recent NBC report corroborated what many feared was the case — the Administration has been targeting the TPP Program and is following a disturbing pattern of ignoring the counsel of highly knowledgeable experts in favor of an ideological agenda. In fact, internal emails and records also suggest that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) decision to shorten the grants excluded knowledgeable government officials.
Every young person deserves the opportunity to realize their goals and live life on their own terms. The TPP Program helps meet that purpose by providing vital information that empowers young people to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. So shouldn’t the decision on how to carry out the TPP Program build on its successful evidence-based approach and not ideology? Let’s hope that going forward decisions will be based on the best science and expert advice.Wed, 21 Mar 2018 13:20:53 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/considering-their-futures-save-tpppBefore They Go, Here Are 4 Must-Have Spring Break Conversationshttps://powertodecide.org/news/they-go-here-are-4-must-have-spring-break-conversations
Spring has sprung its magic in many parts of the country and college students everywhere are packing their bags and heading off to recuperate from midterms. Whether they’re sun bathing in Miami, couch surfing at mom’s, or staying in their dorm, spring break is notorious for being a week of drinking, hook-ups, and sleeping in until a growling stomach awakens you. This spring break we’re challenging parents, older cousins, mentors, and other trusted adults to have important conversations with the young people in their lives.
Wondering what to say? We've got you covered. You should keep it super casual by opening with “what are your plans during spring break?” and go from there. Or you might try a more serious approach like “I know you’re going to have an amazing time on your break, and because I love you, there are some things I want to talk about to make sure you’re safe and having fun.” You could even admit that it’s a little uncomfortable by saying, "I know we don’t usually talk about these things, and this might be a little awkward, but I was reading an article about college kids going on spring break and it said there are four things I should tell a young person I care about beforehand…”
Super easy, right? Use this article as your conversation opener, and you'll both be glad you did.
4 Must Have Spring Break Conversations
1. Have fun.
Parents, trusted adults, and everyone in between, remind the young people in your life that it's okay to have fun and even share personal stories about that one time you did something fun or wild. Hearing stories about your youth makes you relatable, further encouraging your young person to be more open with you about their adventures.
Check out our stories here:
2. Stay protected.
Safety first. From sunscreen to condoms, birth control, and responsible drinking—safety is important. Remembering to bring things like birth control or the importance of traveling in groups can be easy to forget, while on vacation. Reminding your college student to lather up when sunbathing, to pack extra condoms, or to always travel with a friend doesn't make you a nag—it just shows that you care.
3. Be respectful.
Sometimes talking about things like consent and treating others with the utmost respect takes the back burner. Talk to your college students about peer pressure, consent, verbal and non-verbal cues, boundaries, and the like. Let them know that you expect them to treat others with respect and that they should expect to be treated well, too. Tell them how proud you'd be to learn if they stepped in to help if they saw someone disrespecting someone else, be it around drinking, sex, or drugs. They may be over 18, but it's still important to say these things, even if you've said them before.
4. Know I’m always here for you.
A simple, "I'm just a phone call away" might sound corny and super cliché but reminding your young person that you are still and will always be available means the world to them. Offer yourself as a resource and an ally each and every time you speak with your college student!
Chances are that many of the conversations you'll have with your college student may be awkward. But they're necessary. Don't let the fear of a few eye rolls, loud sighs, or long pauses scare you out of having life-changing conversations with the young people you care about the most! Talking about difficult and uncomfortable topics is just a part of life. Learning how to effectively communicate in uncomfortable situations will help prepare your young person for even more complicated conversations later–like negotiating salaries, for example. The more you talk about these things, the easier it gets.
Check out our Packing with Bedsider: Spring Break Edition videos for more ideas on what to remind your college students to pack! Happy Spring Break ✈️👙🏝
Mon, 12 Mar 2018 14:25:01 -0400dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/they-go-here-are-4-must-have-spring-break-conversationsHelping Mississippi College Students Prevent Unplanned Pregnancy and STIshttps://powertodecide.org/news/helping-mississippi-college-students-prevent-unplanned-pregnancy-and-stis
After nearly a decade of working with colleges to help their students prevent unplanned pregnancy, we've heard many myths. And not just from students—from whom there have been many—but also from college faculty and staff. One of the most common myths is that college students are grown-ups, and surely they have received sex education and the information they need about sex and birth control, before arriving at college. This is, however, far from the truth.
As the students in the video mention, they still have a lot to learn. Some of them attended middle and high schools that didn’t cover sex education at all. One student stated that he was home schooled and that the topic of sexual health was avoided all together. Regardless of what type of information they’ve already received, the vast majority of students admit they need more. Providing young people with valuable information about sexual health—including unplanned pregnancy and STI prevention—when they get to college is certainly not too late, and college students are grateful to have finally received this education.
Many colleges can do so much more to help their students succeed and help them realize they have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to start or expand their family. And Mississippi has been leading the way! In this case study, we highlight what four colleges in Mississippi have done to expand and improve connections to healthcare services in the community, so students know exactly where to go to obtain birth control and other sexual health services. Through Power to Decide’s Campus Sexual Health Program, these four colleges were able to identify and pursue best practices that help promote sexual health and preventing unplanned pregnancy across the campus. In addition, the colleges used free online lessons developed by Power to Decide, to provide education about how to take action to prevent unplanned pregnancy and make sure they protect their future and educational success.
Unfortunately, the colleges in Mississippi will no longer receive dedicated funding from the state to address this topic. While this comes as a disappointment and puts continued progress at risk, several of the colleges have identified a few low- and no-cost solutions that will help some of this work to continue.
It has been a pleasure to work with colleges in Mississippi, even more so after hearing how much it has meant to their students. Power to Decide’s work with Mississippi colleges wouldn’t have been possible without generous funding from the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi.Fri, 09 Mar 2018 19:38:38 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/helping-mississippi-college-students-prevent-unplanned-pregnancy-and-stisContraception and the Gender Wage Gap https://powertodecide.org/news/contraception-and-gender-wage-gap
Advances in reproductive technologies have dramatically altered women’s lives, especially when it comes to their ￼career opportunities and choices. The invention of the pill and other contraceptive methods have provided women with the opportunity to determine if, when, and under what circumstances to become pregnant. Delaying childbirth has allowed more women to invest in their education, and ultimately, their careers.
The power of the pill is most apparent when examining the gender gap in wages in the U.S. labor force. In the 1980s and 1990s, the male-female wage gap (i.e., men being paid more than women) narrowed considerably compared to previous decades, due in part to increased educational attainment among women, as well as an influx of women entering into high-earning occupational fields. Laws that allowed women legal access to birth control varied greatly by state during the late 1960s and 1970s. To better understand how birth control access affected the gender wage gap, researchers examined women's wages based on the year they were born and the accessibility of birth control in their state.
Broadly speaking, they found that following implementation of early access laws, oral contraception use doubled among women between the ages of 18 and 20. The authors find that while early access lowered women’s wages in their early twenties (corresponding to the late 1960s and 1970s), it raised their wages in their thirties and forties (corresponding to the 1980s and 1990s). By their mid-to-late forties, women with early access to the pill earned an 8% premium on their hourly wages. This increase accounted for nearly 30% of the convergence in men and women’s earnings from 1990s to 2000.
Ultimately, this research empirically demonstrates the dollar value attached to contraceptive access in terms of women’s earning potential. Some legislation seeking to close the gender wage gap has been introduced, such as the passage of the 2009 Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act. However, the gender wage gap is still apparent, especially among women of color relative to their white male counterparts. On average, white women earn 80 cents for every dollar paid to their male counterparts, while African American women earn 63 cents and Latina women earn 54 cents, respectively. This is just one of the many reasons greater access to birth control is crucial for all women, especially women in need of publicly funded contraception.
To find out more ways you can help support women’s access to contraception and economic opportunities make sure to check out this month’s Not Your Mama’s Podcast, as well as our activation page! Fri, 02 Mar 2018 11:25:04 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/contraception-and-gender-wage-gapPREP: New Research, New Funding, More Opportunities for Young People https://powertodecide.org/news/prep-new-research-new-funding-more-opportunities-for-young-people
The Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP) is an evidence-based program that provides federal grants to states, tribes and communities to help some of the most vulnerable youth in our country avoid unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, while helping young people prepare for adulthood. PREP is administered by the Family and Youth Services Bureau at HHS. Together with the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program administered by the Office of Adolescent Health at HHS, PREP is expanding the reach of already proven programs to more youth and communities, and building a body of evidence about what works to meet the needs of vulnerable young people in a variety of populations and settings.
A special supplement to the American Journal of Public Health, Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention in Underserved Populations: The Way Forward, released on Valentine’s Day contains a treasure trove of important research and perspectives gleaned from the implementation of PREP since it started in 2010. This includes rigorous research about an effective intervention to serve youth in foster care and juvenile justice group homes, lessons about how and where to effectively reach “high need” youth (including tribal youth, young minority fathers, and teen mothers), the role of acculturation in communication between Hispanic mothers and daughters, how to support young people through community collaboration, and more. I encourage you to check out the full set of articles (all very short and accessible) and share them widely.
What makes this information that much more exciting is that Congress recently voted, on a bipartisan basis, to extend PREP for an additional two years (see more details here). With a total of $150 million secured over two years, state, community, and tribal grantees and their partners can continue to build on this knowledge and provide high quality sexual health information to hundreds of thousands of additional young people. Moreover, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners can use the research generated by PREP to inform and strengthen their efforts. Armed with this new knowledge and continued funding, we can help reduce disparities and empower more young people with the information and support they need to lead their best lives.
Learn more about how you can activate here.
Andrea Kane, Vice President for Policy and Strategic Partnerships at Power to DecideTue, 27 Feb 2018 09:44:54 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/prep-new-research-new-funding-more-opportunities-for-young-peopleFebruary 2018 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2018-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we'll highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Rheneisha Robertson
Chief Program Officer, Institute of Women & Ethnic Studies
Q1: What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high quality sexual health information or high quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant?
​A1: Over the past 17 years of my public health career, I've worked in mu​ltiple capacities to ensure that young people have access to quality sexual and reproductive health information and services. As a lead counselor with the Illinois Teen Parent Services Program, I began my career working with young parents in helping them achieve their educational and career goals, through the provision of social supports. This gave me the opportunity to ensure young parents had access to sexual health information and contraceptive services so that they can not only decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant, but also address the myriad of factors and determinants impacting their health and well-being. Most of my experience in this area has been in coordinating and directing adolescent sexual health and risk reduction programs that provide young people access to comprehensive sexual health education, advocacy training and leadership development, through a number of dynamic strategies to engage young people and ensure their access to quality, comprehensive sexual health information, and opportunities to build skills so that they can make healthy decisions related to their sexual and reproductive health. ​Now, as Chief Programs Officer at the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (IWES), I have the incredible opportunity to utilize my years of experience and further shape our organization's adolescent & youth sexual reproductive health, rights and justice work.
Q2: How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
​A2: I've always been passionate about working with and on behalf of communities of color, particularly women and youth, working to ensure access to the resources and tools they need to thrive physically and emotionally. My training and educational background is in Maternal and Child Health Education and Health Communications, and I was fortunate to begin my career working with young women of color​ at IWES​to provide them with quality sex education, risk reduction and prevention information and skill building. My driving force is that I have the privilege to play a small role in building young people's confidence, knowledge and skills related to their overall health and well-being.
Q3: What advice would you give to someone looking to impact change in the field that you currently work in?
​A3: Understanding the context in which people live—their experiences of trauma, social conditions, community and interpersonal factors that contribute to their ability to thrive physically and emotionally—is critically important. In order to impact change, one must engage in this work with that lens, and seek to not only work at an individual level but also work to address those community and societal factors that impact health outcomes.
Q4: Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
​A4: I believe strongly that it is a right, not a privilege that all people have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story. Unfortunately, social, cultural and political factors often dictate ​who has access and who does not. One of my favorite quotes, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly." Dr. Martin Luther King's words fittingly describes why this work is so important to me, and why we should all care about ensuring access for all people. It is an injustice to deny anyone—regardless of who they are and where they live—this human right.
Q5: Is there a highlight about your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
​A5: Over the years, I've greatly benefited from the resources that Power to Decide has offered. I look forward to future opportunities to learn and share, and expand access for all young people to the information and services they need to live their best life story.
*Responses have been edited for clarity. Fri, 23 Feb 2018 14:39:05 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/february-2018-power-player14 Ways To Love Yourself This Valentine's Dayhttps://powertodecide.org/news/14-ways-love-yourself-valentines-day
This V-Day we're committed to helping you love yourself even more! As flowers and chocolates fly off shelves and restaurants and movie theaters fill, we're giving you 14 ways to love yourself through this love-fest of a holiday. Whether you're spooning with bae or snuggling with your besties, we hope February 14th brings you more joy (and chocolate too) than you can handle.
Here are 14 ways to love yourself even more this Valentine’s Day:
1. Stay Calm
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It’s so easy to get sucked into what everyone else is doing, but try to keep your cool. Here are some great breathing exercises to start your day off on the right foot.
2. Be Anti-Social Media
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Facebook memories and a gazillion romantic Instagram posts can totally make you feel like you’re missing out on something amazing. If social media displays of affection make you mad or sad, a day hiatus might be just what you need.
3. Treat Yourself
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Whether it's splurging on a side of guacamole, buying the shoes you’ve been eyeing, or taking the scenic route home—find ways to spoil yourself. You're allowed to be your own Valentine.
4. Host a Galentine's Day
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Being a “gal” isn't a qualifying factor for throwing an epic Galentine’s for your closest pal. Grab your faves and spend quality time together. That’s guaranteed to make your day spectacular.
5. Activate
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Doing good always does good for the soul. Visit our Take Action Tuesday page for ways to fight for the 19 million women who still lack reasonable access to the full range of birth control methods.
6. Wellness Visit
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Schedule a check-up. It might sound strange, but making time to see your provider is a great way to love yourself well. Find out which no co-pay preventative service are covered by your insurance.
7. Write A Note
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Not into letter writing? Send a text or a video message. The people in your life will be happy to know you care.
8. Laugh
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Laughter is the best medicine, right? Love yourself this V-Day and laugh to keep from crying. Check out this month's Not Your Mama's Podcast and see what De'Jonnae, Patia, and VICE Tonic's Wellness Editor are cackling about. Plus, we heard there's talk of toe-sucking.
9. Build-A-Bae
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It’s basically a vision board for your heart.
10. Be Kind
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Perform a random act of kindness. Buy Starbucks for the person behind you. Help someone with their bags–these small gestures can matter to a stranger more than you know.
11. Say 'I Love You'
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Tell someone you love them. There are actual health benefits to being affectionate with the people in your life.
12. Self-Affirmation
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Remind yourself that you’re the bomb-dot-com (okay, no one says that anymore, but you get the point). Some days we feel confident and other days we find ourselves feeling a little less-than-great. When you do, try to find ways to remind yourself that you are amazing.
13. Dance
Make a playlist and dance like no one is watching. There’s nothing like a lit playlist to help you shift your mood, boost your confidence, and get those shoulders moving.
14. Go to Sleep
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Okay, this one might be a given. But this Valentine’s Day and every day, be intentional about getting your beauty sleep. Seven to eight hours of rest is essential for living your best life. Plus, what’s the use in lying awake thinking about tomorrow’s tasks—they’ll be waiting for you when you wake up.
Wed, 14 Feb 2018 14:36:07 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/14-ways-love-yourself-valentines-dayA Native Judge’s Fight for Equity Pt. 2https://powertodecide.org/news/native-judges-fight-for-equity-pt-2
This past summer, JeNeen Anderson—our lead When You Decide Toolkit Trainer—trained Judge Swimmer and a number of other Eastern Band community stakeholders on best practices for integrating teen pregnancy prevention materials inside and outside of the courtrooms. This was Power to Decide's first opportunity to work with Native judges to address teen pregnancy. If you missed part one of this two-part series, check it out here.
We had the opportunity to catch up with Judge Swimmer to get a firsthand perspective on what it means to be a Native judge serving the Eastern Band Tribe of Cherokee Indians and how she plans to implement the When You Decide Toolkit in her courtroom. Here's what she had to say:
De'Jonnae: Judge Swimmer, I actually was reading another community leader's recount on the perception of sexuality in the native community and how taboo sex and sexuality are. What's your opinion on this? Would you agree with this perspective?
Judge Swimmer: In the Cherokee Tribe, women were often involved in politics and leadership. In addition, we were a matrilineal society so patriarchy was not our tradition. Women and men balanced one another. Sexuality and sexual exploration was not considered taboo until Christian missionaries came and forcefully willed religious conversions upon our tribe. Women are now more likely to be subservient, in hopes of being considered 'holy and virtuous.' Colonialism and forced religious conversions changed our narrative around sex and relationships.
De'Jonnae: When we first received your When You Decide Toolkit application, you mentioned the many hardships the youth in your community face. You also mentioned that in your community you're working towards restorative justice and alternative solutions. In what ways are you hopeful that the toolkit will empower you and your restorative justice efforts?
Judge Swimmer: The thing that really caught my attention about the When You Decide Toolkit is the scripts for starting conversations with at-risk teens. These scripts are really helpful because we know as adults what we want to communicate to our youth and how we want them to receive it. But the issue is that we don't know how to start the conversation! Most people in our community know there's a problem but they don't know how to be the trusted adult that kids need. So, the script is helpful—knowing that these are conversation starting prompts, that have worked with other judges, is reassuring. The toolkit arms our leaders and other trusted adults with the important information needed to have those hard conversations.
When individuals in the community say "I want to do something to help but I don't know how," I can pass along this information because with these scripts anyone can help. I'm hopeful that if we can get this toolkit into hands of community leaders, tribal counselors, and others it'll be what we need to further our restorative justice efforts.
De'Jonnae: During the When You Decide Toolkit training, participants are asked to create action items to implement in their courtrooms or spheres of influence. What are some of the things you listed as action items to implement in your jurisdiction?
Judge Swimmer: For starters, one of my action items is to form a transportation commission. In rural areas, like ours, getting basic health care or going to your gynecological appointment can be a serious hassle. When we're talking about foster care and system youth, we're talking about the social worker who will have to pick that kid up from school, drive them one hour to the appointment, wait with them during the appointment, then drive them back to the school. That's a four to five-hour chunk out of that social worker's day—which means she isn't able to help the other youth on her docket.
We also want to get these foster kids in after school activities, maybe guitar or dance lessons—but again, they'll need transportation and we don't want to burden the foster parents.
So, we've started the conversation among stakeholders to see how we can resolve this issue. Maybe it's a community-wide carpool or a shuttle, we're working together to figure out the best solution. The good thing about the toolkit training is that it has really challenged our community to begin connecting the dots to see where our resources are and how we can utilize them in the best way possible.
If we're going to prevent teen and unplanned pregnancies among at-risk youth, we have to first create opportunities for get them to realize their full potential.
De'Jonnae: What role does culture play in this?
Judge Swimmer: Teen pregnancy prevention isn't the central focus for me, it is, indeed, a by-product. We're in a rural area so there aren't as many options for kids to get involved. But we want these kids to learn socialization skills. We want them interacting with other humans. We're trying to give them a sense of appreciation for their heritage and culture –we're teaching these kids about their roots. We're having conversations like: "this is what it means to be a Cherokee woman."
We are really trying to foster a deeper sense of identity, because our youth don't know who they are. Their risky behaviors are a result of a lack of identity. If we can get them to identity with their heritage, it opens the door for them to build self-esteem and think about their future stories.
We, as trusted adults, need to heal our kids. There's a saying that goes, "hurt people, hurt people." So, we need to transform their pain so it isn't transmitted. When you're working with Native kids, the root of risky behaviors is something very different than kids in other communities. These kids are trying to mask years of trauma and abuse. These risky behaviors are not a phase for them, they're coping mechanisms. As these kids' mentors, we are trying to address the hurt and remind them that their lives matter.
De'Jonnae: In a perfect world, how does the implementation of the When You Decide Toolkit play out in your community?
Judge Swimmer: In a perfect world I wouldn't have a job. When I talk about alternative dispute resolution and restorative justice, I imagine that we are able to handle these issues within our community. The court system isn't based on the Native tradition of restorative justice. In the American legal system, we aren't necessarily taught to look at why the person did what they did; we aren't taught to address the root causes; and we don’t evaluate the intergenerational trauma. But once we are able to tackle these root issues we will see a drop in the abuse of drugs, domestic violence, and teen pregnancy. I want to get to a point where the community comes together. Where jail isn't the only option–but we're figuring alternative solutions to heal broken individuals.
De'Jonnae: Any final thoughts, Judge Swimmer?
Judge Swimmer: The training was so collaborative. It started the conversation on how we can all work together to be the change we want to see in our community. Just a few weeks ago, our Tribal Council passed a resolution to establish a needle exchange program. It seems like these little initiatives—transportation services or needle exchange programs—are in the weeds, but they're not. We see that IV drug usage leads to an increase in Hepatitis C and poor decision making, which then leads to unplanned pregnancies. So, these efforts are key to changing behaviors. We finally see that something needs to change and we're working to that end.
You asked me: in a perfect world what does this all look like, and I thought of the day a young woman came into my courtroom looking to activate a 12-month sentence. I asked her what her life would look like in a perfect world. I also asked her how going to jail would help her achieve that. She answered me and she told me what her perfect world looked like. And so, I responded saying, "how can we help you get there?"
So here I am, just one judge looking to making an impact—hoping to create a world, where young people can envision a future that's within their reach.
*Responses have been edited for clarity and length. Thu, 08 Feb 2018 17:00:50 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/native-judges-fight-for-equity-pt-2Valentine's Day Special: Make Some Lovehttps://powertodecide.org/news/valentines-day-special-nympod-ep2-pt-2-make-some-love
Make Some Love
We get it, Valentine's Day is not all that Hallmark and Hershey crack it up to be. But not to worry, we've got you covered! Not Your Mama's Podcast hosts are committed to seeing you laugh and love this VDay season! Check out this hilarious #BuildYourBae video and head over to Bedsider.org to make your perfect partner.
Did you laugh? Well of course did! Share this article with a friend and let the love and laughter flow! Happy Valentine's Day, lovelies!
Wed, 07 Feb 2018 18:17:22 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/valentines-day-special-nympod-ep2-pt-2-make-some-loveRacial Disparities in Contraceptive Use: The Role of Perceived Discriminationhttps://powertodecide.org/news/medical-mistrust-leads-to-racial-disparities-in-contraceptive-use
In recent years, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC) have gained increasing popularity. However, the use of the IUD and implant remain limited, especially among women of color. Although the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists declared LARC methods to be the most effective form of reversible contraception and safe for almost all women of reproductive-age, research has shown that African American and Latina women are less likely to use these types of contraceptive methods in comparison to their white counterparts.
To better understand why these racial and ethnic disparities persist, it is crucial to account for the role that discrimination plays in contraceptive choice. Historically, in the United States, women of color have been the victims of forced sterilization, eugenics, questionable field trials of new drugs, and coerced use of birth control. As researchers note, the adoption of sterilization laws and eugenic promotion of birth control in the early 20th Century has since resulted in a general medical mistrust among women of color.
To further explore the relationship between race and contraceptive use, researchers drew on a sample of 2,500 women age 14-45 enrolled in the Contraceptive CHOICE Project—a cohort study run by researchers at University of Washington St. Louis that aims to reduce barriers to LARC methods. Women were eligible to participate in the study if they: 1. resided or sought clinic service in the St. Louis area, 2. had been sexually active with a male partner in the past sixth months or anticipated doing so in the next sixth months, 3. were not seeking to become pregnant, and 4. were not currently using a contraceptive method.
Allison McGrath discusses the role of medical mistrust as it relates to contraceptive use and race.
The researchers asked respondents to indicate whether they experienced discrimination based on their race, socio-economic status, or gender in the context of work, employment, etc. In addition to assessing respondents’ perceived discrimination, the researchers also assessed the frequency at which they experienced discrimination as a result of their race, economic status, or gender. Prior to and after enrollment in the Contraceptive CHOICE project, the researchers compared whether discrimination was associated with selection of contraceptive methods.
The results show that women who experienced any form of discrimination were more likely to report using a contraceptive method prior to enrollment in the study; however, they were also more likely to report using less effective contraceptive methods (e.g., withdrawal, rhythm/natural family planning, etc.) relative to their counterparts who did not indicate a history of discrimination.
The findings concluded that for women of color—specifically African American women—experiencing discrimination results in the increased odds of using less effective contraceptive methods. The discrepancies in the rates of unintended pregnancies and the lack of use of contraception among women of color, when compared to their white counterparts, are not coincidental. When black and brown women encounter racism and discrimination from their health care providers it impacts their ability to access the care they need and deserve.
In this month's Not Your Mama's Podcast, which will be available on February 20th, our hosts speak with Monica Mclemore and Monica Simpson—two incredible women working to restore reproductive justice and create an environment where women of color are heard and believed. Be sure to check it out! For more ways to support the reproductive justice movement and insure that all women have access to unbiased quality reproductive care, visit our Activation Page.
-Allison McGrath, Market & Behavioral Insights Manager
Fri, 02 Feb 2018 11:58:17 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/medical-mistrust-leads-to-racial-disparities-in-contraceptive-useProgress Pays Off: Investing in Prevention Yields Significant Savingshttps://powertodecide.org/news/progress-pays-investing-prevention-yields-significant-savings
The rates of unplanned pregnancies and birth among teens continue to decline due to more than two decades of investments made in prevention. New analysis from Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy, shows these declines resulted in public savings of $4.4 billion for 2015 alone.
Strong investments in access to contraception, information, and quality sex education have contributed to ever declining teen pregnancy and birth rates –since peaking in 1991, the teen pregnancy rate has declined 67 percent. Consequently, the related savings to taxpayers has been significant. The new data from Power to Decide shows that current investments save taxpayers $4.4 billion each year. If additional investments were made, taxpayers could save another $1.9 billion each year.
Despite this impressive record of success and the significant savings to taxpayers, the current Administration has recently issued directives that threaten continued efforts in this area including access to quality sex education and contraceptive care. Now more than ever, we must maintain investments in teen pregnancy prevention programs and protect women’s access to contraception. We also must continue to advocate for public financing through the Title X family planning program and Medicaid. These efforts help ensure that all women, including teens, with the greatest need can continue to get high quality contraceptive care. Not only is this sound economic policy—it also more than pays for itself through billions in cost savings associated with medical and economic support.
However, progress isn’t victory and the teen pregnancy rates for Latina and Black women are still more than twice as high when compared to their white counterparts. In addition, more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts, where they do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods.
We will continue our efforts to make sure all teens have information, opportunity and access to contraception and quality sex education so that they can align their intentions to avoid pregnancy with their actions. These resources are imperative in order for all young people to have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant and live life on their own terms.
To view the complete results of our analysis—including state-by-state results—visit our Progress Pays Off page.
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 13:41:06 -0500mrossthttps://powertodecide.org/news/progress-pays-investing-prevention-yields-significant-savingsJanuary 2018 Power Playerhttps://powertodecide.org/news/january-2018-power-player
Here at Power to Decide, we are committed to uplifting the many individuals who are on the ground doing the work that matters most. Each month we'll highlight an individual or organization who is championing the effort to give young people the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. Check out this month's Power Player profile.
Abby Hunt
Executive Director, Health Care Education and Training
Q1: What work have you done to ensure that young people have access to high quality sexual health information or high quality contraceptive services so that they can decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant?
A1: I am incredibly proud of all of our adolescent health work, which ensures access to evidence based teen pregnancy/STD/HIV prevention programs. That said, we've made incredible progress in bringing collaboratively-delivered programs to youth in foster care and in juvenile detention. These youth have a much higher rate of teen pregnancy and accompanying risk factors and it's truly wonderful to work with the agencies serving these kids. We work closely with our community based partners and implementation sites to ensure high quality programs delivered by excellent facilitators with fidelity. We regularly evaluate the implementation and use data and feedback to drive the delivery so that youth receive the best program possible.
Q2: How did you get started in your field? What is your driving force?
A2: My two years in focused service learning with AmeriCorps solidified my entrance into social work and non-profits. My own personal and professional encounters with lack of access to reproductive health care and education led me to focus my efforts on access. My driving force is the belief that reproductive and sexual health is an essential piece of overall individual and community health, yet it is often the first left out of the conversation.
Q3: What advice would you give to someone looking to impact change in the field that you currently work in?
A3: Be careful about the silos in this work. Be sure to look for intersections with other health issues and sectors. Don’t think about advocacy as something that just looks one way, or something you can’t do. It can be quiet and loud, large scale and small—build and sustain relationships at all levels, you never know who will be your next champion or important connection.
Q4: Why should someone care about ensuring that all people—regardless of who they are or where they live—have access to the information and contraception they need to live their best life story?
A4: The economic and social costs to the many young people affected by a lack of access, their families, social programs, the workforce, and education systems are steep. Access to contraception and education could, however, change the trajectory. Access and high quality evidence-based sex and relationship education should be a central piece to all community development and health initiatives.
Q5: Is there a highlight about your work in conjunction with our organization that you’d like to share?
A5: I truly value our partnership with the Power to Decide. It is reciprocal and always serves to further our individual and collective goals. I fondly remember our collaborative event at Indiana Black Expo many years ago that started teen pregnancy prevention session with legislators, youth, funders, and community and culminated with a listening tour with faith based, family planning, and agencies serving young men. It was a timely impetus and a lot of work that developed from that event endures today. We depend on Power to Decide to be our warriors in D.C. and to keep us up to date with policy and data changes.
*Responses have been edited for clarity. Thu, 25 Jan 2018 15:05:12 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/january-2018-power-playerBeyond The March: Activating Year-Roundhttps://powertodecide.org/news/beyond-march-activating-year-round
This year’s Women’s March brought folks together from all around the world. From Las Vegas to Washington, D.C., women and allies showed up to let the world know that we’re ready to make our voices heard.
But the march is only the beginning.
With Title X funding under siege and the newly created Conscience and Religious Freedom Division within the Department of Health and Human Services poised to deny people the care they need, it’s important to remain politically engaged all year-round. Need ideas for getting activated? Here are a few we have in mind:
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1. Learn about the movement.
Marches are a great way to increase visibility, but make sure that you’re equipped with credible information. We have lots of resources to help you understand exactly why access to birth control is important for everyone.
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2. Learn about national and local issues.
Does your state have policies to increase access to contraception? What federal grants for teen pregnancy prevention are going on in your state? Where does Title X family planning funding go, and how many unintended pregnancies has it prevented? Learn about hot-button issues that impact the country and your state, so you know exactly how to fight.
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3. Register to vote.
Each state has its own voter registration processes, but you can start the journey at Vote.gov. If you’re already registered, you’ll want to stay on top of the upcoming primary elections happening in your own backyard.
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4. Call your elected officials.
If you live in one of the 50 states, you have two senators and one Representative that all serve in congress. You’ll want to give them a call and tell them to support continued funding for the Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP) and an appropriations bill that fully funds the Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program and the Title X Family Planning Program. To reach your elected officials, call the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and they’ll connect you. For more on how easy it is to call your members of Congress, check out this guide.
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5. Get social.
Organizing an event can be a great way to get people in your life engaged in a cause you care about. Consider a postcard party, where your friends come over to learn about an issue and take action on the spot. Write to your Representatives in Congress and the Senate to let them know where you stand. Pro tip: Your postcard doesn’t have to be a complaint or request; saying thanks can be a powerful way to reinforce positions your representatives take!
You can also activate your social accounts! Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are powerful tools for getting your voice heard. Here's how to get started:
Follow us to stay current on weekly ways to activate.
Check out our weekly #TakeActionTuesday call-to-actions, which are super easy to share.
Share this petition, which encourages un-biased health care for all!
No matter what you decide to do, know that helping more people gain access to the birth control method of their choice benefits everyone. If you’re looking for more ways to get active, visit the Power to Decide Activation Portal.
Tue, 23 Jan 2018 12:01:14 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/beyond-march-activating-year-roundStand Up & Show Your Support for Health Care for Allhttps://powertodecide.org/news/stand-show-your-support-for-health-care-for-all
Health Care For All
Everybody—no matter who they are or where they live—deserves the health care they believe is right for them—and the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant. Birth control is basic health care—and 99% of women use it in their lifetimes.
Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) established a Conscience and Religious Freedom Division within its Office of Civil Rights that allows an array of health care providers to refuse to offer “certain” services and to refuse to serve “certain” people if it violates their belief system. This puts millions of people at risk of curbed access to comprehensive health services and supplies, including birth control and emergency contraception. It also means that many people, including LGBTQ people, can be denied services.
We are health care providers—doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists and others—who commit to stand up and support all of our patients’ rights to make their own decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. We know that we stand amongst the vast majority of our colleagues and we commit to continuing to provide comprehensive, compassionate and inclusive care to every person we serve. We will make sure that all people—no matter who they are or where they live—can live their best lives on their own terms.
If you agree that health care providers must continue to #PutPatientsFirst, join us in signing this petition!
Mon, 22 Jan 2018 16:50:35 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/stand-show-your-support-for-health-care-for-allWe March to Ensure Birth Control Access For Allhttps://powertodecide.org/news/we-march-ensure-birth-control-access-for-all
Originally posted on TheHill.com
About a year ago, millions nationwide and across the world marched with purpose. We marched last year because of the threats the Trump presidency posed to women’s rights, civil rights, healthcare reform, LGBTQ rights and much more. We marched last year hoping that the message that millions of us carried would awaken the world and the administration to our concerns.
Unfortunately, the threat we saw a year ago remains. That is why this Saturday I will be marching again with countless others nationwide. We will march loudly, proudly, and together to fight for young people’s power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to get pregnant.
The administration has taken many actions to undermine that power this year, and so we will march against these ongoing attacks on young people’s right to quality sex education and everyone’s access to no cost or low cost contraception.
As the second year of the current administration gets underway, we will continue to fight for young people. Our policy priorities are clear:
Ensure that millions of women can continue to obtain no co-pay contraception
Sustain a strong network of safety-net clinics providing high quality contraceptive care through the Title X family planning program and Medicaid.
Maintain the good work of the federal Teen Pregnancy Prevention (TPP) Program and the Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP).
Make certain that all young people have the sexual health information they need to plan their futures.
We march with science and evidence on our side. Just look at the progress we have made. Unplanned pregnancy among women of all ages has declined for the first time in decades. Since peaking in the early 1990s, the nation’s teen birth rate has declined 67 percent and the unplanned pregnancy rate has fallen 18 percent. There has been progress in all 50 states and among all racial/ethnic groups.
Yet even with this progress, women of color, young women living in poverty, and young women in rural areas are more likely to experience an unplanned pregnancy. These disparities are due, in part, to the fact that more than 19 million women in need of publicly funded contraception live in contraceptive deserts, where they do not have reasonable access in their county to a public clinic that offers the full range of contraceptive methods. Complacency is simply not an option.
Nearly 9 in 10 (87 percent) individuals 18 and older agree that everyone deserves the power to access the full range of birth control methods, no matter who they are, where they live, or what their economic status is, according to a recent survey conducted by Power to Decide.
I know I am not alone in feeling disheartened by the efforts of this administration to cut and restrict programs that we know help, and are necessary, to reduce unplanned pregnancies. We must remember that there is strength in numbers. Together we can overcome obstacles and have a positive impact on people’s lives.
As we march this weekend, I will carry the many stories of young peoplewhose lives have been changed because they have access to contraception. We can’t and we won’t go back. Remember that before birth control was legalized in 1970, there was not one woman CEO of a Fortune 500 company.
Thanks in no small part to birth control and the ability for women to make proactive decisions about their education and their families, today we have over 32 female CEOs—6.4 percent of the U.S.’s biggest companies are now run by women. Progress? Yes. Victory? Decidedly not.
So let’s march for women, children, and families nationwide to help ensure all young people have the power to decide if, when and under what circumstances to get pregnant and live life on their own terms.Fri, 19 Jan 2018 15:43:54 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/we-march-ensure-birth-control-access-for-allReady, Set, March: 4 Ways to Prepare for the 2018 Women’s Marchhttps://powertodecide.org/news/ready-set-march-4-ways-prepare-for-2018-womens-march
On January 21, 2017, millions of women gathered around the world to make their voices heard. One year later, women and allies are congregating again, but this time we’re not just marching—we’re taking our fight to the polls. The official event, Power to the Polls, is happening in Las Vegas on January 21st. But it’s the beginning of a longer initiative to make sure we’re prepared for the upcoming election season.
Even if you can’t make it to Vegas, The Women’s March organizers have created a search tool that allows you to find events in your area. Here are a few things to remember:
1. Dress for the occasion.
You might have the perfect pussy hat picked out, but it’s important that you’re prepared for all of the elements. Whether that involves comfortable walking shoes or appropriate outerwear, keep in mind that you might face rain, wind, or oppressive sunshine throughout the day. If you want to make a real fashion statement, grab a Thanks, Birth Control hat or t-shirt to rock with pride at the march.
2. Pack light.
Along with preparing for the weather, you’ll want to be VERY discerning about what you carry with you. Consider a fanny pack large enough for cash, a cell phone (and portable phone charger). If you require any medication, you’ll want to make sure you have that with you as well. Bring the necessities, but resist the urge to overpack—some venues might not allow you to carry large bags or backpacks.
3. Know the local laws.
Beyond knowing your First Amendment rights, Broadly suggests you know local laws in the state where you plan to march. Make your voice heard in ways that feel most authentic to you, but make sure you have resources and a contingency plan in place to do so.
4. Have an emergency contact ready.
It’s tempting to think that you can access any number you need from your cell phone, but in large crowds, it’s impossible to predict exactly what will happen. You’ll want to have an emergency contact either written down (on an actual piece of paper) or memorized. While we hope you won’t need it, it’s important to have.
Most of all, we want you to have fun, be safe, and enjoy being in the company of like-minded people. Want a few ways to get involved beyond this the march? Visit our activation page for more ways to make your voice heard!
Originally posted on Bedsider.orgWed, 17 Jan 2018 16:46:02 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/ready-set-march-4-ways-prepare-for-2018-womens-marchA Native Judge’s Fight for Equity Pt. 1https://powertodecide.org/news/native-judges-fight-for-equity-pt-1
In 2015, Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy, introduced a new toolkit, When You Decide: A Judge’s Guide to Pregnancy Prevention Among Foster Youth. When You Decide was designed to help judges and their community stakeholders integrate teen pregnancy prevention materials and information in and outside of their courtrooms. Judges play a crucial role in helping system-involved youth obtain the support, knowledge, and tools necessary to make healthy decisions regarding sexual and reproductive health.
Since the When You Decide toolkit release, our staff has trained over 500 judges, attorneys, case managers, and other stakeholders in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. The Toolkit includes judicial practice designed by judges, including bench tools and foundational information for a court-based collaborative initiative on reducing pregnancy among system-involved youth. Easily incorporated with existing bench books and bench tools, the toolkit helps judges empower youth to make choices which delay pregnancy by giving judges and their community stakeholders tools and strategies to support youth empowerment. At the end of each training session, judges and their stakeholders work together to develop a plan of implementation.
Native Teen Pregnancy Statistics
Native Americans and Alaskan Natives have significantly higher teen birth rates compared to their non-Hispanic white counterparts. In fact, as of 2015, Native teens have the third highest teen birth rate in the United States among the five major racial/ ethnic groups. And despite declining rates of teen births among all racial groups, Native teen birth rates are still higher than the national average. Though little information is available about the sexual and contraceptive behavior of Native teens, what we do know suggests that they are more likely than other teens to have sex before age 16 and less likely to use contraception.
Judge Swimmer and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
In May 2017, JeNeen Anderson, Power to Decide Senior Manager of Programs and When You Decide Lead Trainer, received an application from the the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ first-ever appointed female judge, Shannon Swimmer. Judge Swimmer’s application, was truly one-of-a-kind. Along with being the first woman to serve as a judge for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Judge Swimmer was a teen mother. Judge Swimmer’s jurisdiction currently serves 57 Native foster youth. She pointed out that apart from appointments with doctors, the foster youth have no one to talk to about the importance of safe sex and owning their sexual health decisions. Judge Swimmer reported that there are virtually no other initiatives in the school or the community to champion the effort to prevent unplanned teen pregnancies -though she is looking forward to developing programs, hopefully through a collaboration with the Cherokee Youth Council.
Judge Swimmer recounted memories of her own childhood as a Native teen, saying that “at least one girl was raped every weekend at some party...she just got drunk and a bunch of guys had sex with her while she was passed out and because it happened so frequently, no one seemed to see anything wrong with it”. Along with the sexual violence experienced among Native youth, Judge Swimmer noted that “most of [the community] has suffered some type of trauma: drug or alcohol abuse, domestic violence, or physical and sexual assault” and that it happens so often it’s the “twisted norm”. The judge finished saying, “I was recently appointed as Associate Judge in [2017]. It saddens me that so many of the issues that plagued young people when I was growing up have yet to be addressed and have really only gotten worse with the opioid epidemic.”
Moving Forward
So far, judges and their stakeholders who have successfully completed the When You Decide toolkit training, have begun implementation of their action plans. Some successes include integrating a specific position housed in the courthouse that focuses on addressing sexual and reproductive health with system-involved youth, condom distribution through the courtroom, and jurisdictional-wide teen pregnancy prevention summits. These are a few examples in which the toolkit training is transforming the judicial process for high-risk youth.
Judge Swimmer is the first, but hopefully not the last, Native judge to complete the When You Decide toolkit training. Our team here at the Power to Decide looks forward to seeing how she and her community stakeholders implement the toolkit and their action plan with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.Thu, 11 Jan 2018 10:34:41 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/native-judges-fight-for-equity-pt-1New Campaign Highlights Critical Preventive Services For Women As Provided Under the ACAhttps://powertodecide.org/news/new-campaign-highlights-critical-preventive-services-for-women-provided-under-aca
Well-women visits. Breast cancer screenings. Contraception, counseling, and follow-up care. All of these services and more are still covered by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) without extra costs to you.
In an effort to bring awareness to the preventive medical services available to women, a partnership of prominent organizations have launched the Care Women Deserve campaign. The primary purpose of the campaign is to highlight the requirement that insurances plans are required to provide coverage for preventive medical services without copay, coinsurance, or deductible. Participating organizations include; The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Black Women’s Health Imperative, March of Dimes, National Women’s Law Center, Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy, UnidosUS, and the United State of Women (USOW).
Under the (ACA), a wide variety of preventive health services were required to be covered by health insurance plans without additional costs to the insured. Unfortunately, recent directives from the present Administration have generated much confusion regarding which medical services remain covered under the ACA.
At present, the critical preventive medical services still mandated by the ACA include well-woman visits, contraception, counseling and follow-up care, as well as, counseling for sexually transmitted infections (STI). In addition, screenings for cervical cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), breast cancer, interpersonal and domestic violence, and gestational diabetes are also available at no cost. For most new mothers, breastfeeding services and supplies are also available at no additional cost.
Access to preventive medical services was and is a fundamental tenet of the ACA. The Care Women Deserve campaign seeks to remind women nationwide that important medical services remain available, as well as, ensuring that this administration doesn’t reduce or limit the availability of such care. It is critical to remember that preventive medical services are vital to ensuring women’s health at every stage in their lives.
For more information, we urge you to visit Care Women Deserve and learn more about the benefits available to women under the ACA. And activate yourself by spreading the word about the important health services still available to women using the hashtag #GetTheCare and sharing the resources found at CareWomenDeserve.org
Tue, 09 Jan 2018 11:15:12 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/new-campaign-highlights-critical-preventive-services-for-women-provided-under-acaIntentionality: What does it have to do with pregnancy? https://powertodecide.org/news/data-breakdown-intentionality-what-does-it-have-do-pregnancy
Intentionality. Maybe some of you are familiar with the term or maybe it’s the first time you’ve ever come across it. The concept of intentionality reflects the idea of doing something purposefully or deliberately. In the case of pregnancy, intentionality means aligning ones’ attitudes and behaviors with either actively working to become pregnant or avoiding pregnancy. For individuals who do not want to become pregnant, the act of intentionality would be the use of contraceptives (condoms or other birth control measures) when engaging in sexual intercourse. By using contraceptives, individuals are aligning their attitudes—that is, their desire to avoid becoming pregnant—with their behaviors.
So how do we encourage women to start the conversation around pregnancy intentionality? To begin, we should first understand the barriers women face with regards to developing pregnancy intentions. While some women clearly want to become pregnant, there are many women who have not considered the impact that pregnancy would have on their lives. Often times these women lack empowerment when it comes to reproductive control. Part of encouraging all women to develop pregnancy intentions is taking into account the larger barriers that lead to a lack of reproductive control.
In a recent study examining pregnancy intentionality among low-income women of color, researchers found that women do not often believe they have reproductive control and in turn, do not necessarily formulate clear pregnancy intentions. The study found that this lack of agency was a direct result of the women viewing pregnancy as something that “just happens.” In addition to having a lack of control, another barrier the researchers uncovered was that pregnancy planning was viewed as unattainable by many women. The women interviewed noted that although there were ideal circumstances (i.e., being in a committed relationship, achieving financial stability, having completed school, etc.) under they'd prefer to become pregnant, many of these circumstances were also unattainable, and thus pregnancy intentionality often seemed out of reach and rarely occurred.
Allison McGrath gives a quick overview intentionality and family planning.
Researchers also found that the relationship between pregnancy intentionality—specifically, the desire to avoid becoming pregnant—and contraceptive use was unclear. Many women did not want to become pregnant, but were engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse either because they did not believe that they were susceptible to becoming pregnant or had partners who were coercive and wanted the women to become pregnant.
These findings demonstrate that there are clear barriers when it comes to pregnancy intentionality. To encourage intentionality, it is important to understand why some women feel they lack reproductive control and acknowledge that unplanned pregnancies do not occur in a social vacuum. It is our goal here at Power to Decide to acknowledge the barriers that women encounter and examine the gaps between knowledge and access to contraceptives—ensuring that all women have the power to decide if, when, and under what circumstances they become pregnant. Together we can work to close the gap between intentionality and the reality of unplanned pregnancy.
-Allison McGrath, Market & Behavioral Insights Manager
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 19:16:51 -0500dboydhttps://powertodecide.org/news/data-breakdown-intentionality-what-does-it-have-do-pregnancyInternal Condomhttps://powertodecide.org/news/internal-condom
WHAT IT IS
A pouch made of polyurethane or nitrile that is inserted into a vagina or anus.
HOW IT WORKS
Internal condoms work like male condoms but inside of being on the penis, they go inside the vagina or anus and collect sperm there.
EFFECTIVENESS
Female condoms are 79% effective.
Note: When we talk about effectiveness we mean typical use numbers or what happens when couples used this method of birth control pretty well; it accounts for human errors and occasional contraceptive failure. BUT, teenagers are often not as careful as older people in using these methods, so real typical use rates for teens may be a little worse than what you see here. Keep that in mind as you're looking at the options and remember that for birth control to be effective, you have to use it consistently and correctly every single time.
MAJOR PERKS
Relatively easy to use.
No visit